It was during a therapy session with a rape survivor that Goldstein noticed a sense of comfort her client felt while with her own dogs. Some rape survivors suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder, a condition that is covered by the American Disabilities Act. Under the federal disabilities law, crime victims are allowed to bring licensed service dogs with them anywhere they go. The ADA also provides protection for the dog handlers so they are not required to reveal why they have a service dog. Under the program, rescued dogs with the right temperament are teamed up with volunteer trainers.
Training lasts for about two years.
The dogs are not trained to attack. Rather, they serve and protect their owners and act more as reliable companions. They may bark if the handler is threatened. The program has been so successful here in San Diego that other states are considering similar service dog programs. Organizers are also looking for foster homes for the German Shepherds going through service-dog training.