Welcome to Herschel's Helpers

At Herschel's Helpers, we believe in the transformative power of the human-canine bond. Our mission is to rescue and train service dogs, providing them with a second chance at life while also helping individuals with disabilities live more independently. Join us in our journey of compassion, companionship, and positive change.

 

Services

Service Dog Training

Our service dog training program equips dogs with the skills and behaviors necessary to assist individuals with disabilities in their daily lives, fostering a strong and reliable partnership.

Behavior Modification

We specialize in behavior modification to address and correct any behavioral issues in dogs, promoting a harmonious and fulfilling relationship between the dog and its owner.

Puppy Socialization

Our puppy socialization classes provide young dogs with essential social skills and positive experiences, setting the foundation for a well-adjusted and confident adult dog. Encouraged for owners of all experiences, for the longevity of all dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you select and train your Service Dogs?

We carefully select our Service Dogs based on their temperament, health, and ability to perform specific tasks. Our training methods are positive, reward-based, and tailored to the individual needs of each dog.

What types of disabilities do your service dogs assist with?
Our service dogs are trained to assist individuals with a wide range of physical disabilities, mobility challenges, and medical conditions, including but not limited to visual impairment, hearing loss, and mobility limitations.

What jobs do Service Dogs perform?

A Service Dog is defined as a dog that performs any task for the benefit of an individual.

NY State Law defines a service dog/animal as "...a working animal, not a pet. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability."

Please refer to the following brochure featuring the aforementioned definition:

ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/service_animals_brochure.pdf

How old does a dog need to be to be considered a Service Dog?

A Service Dog starts training right out the womb.

As a service animal is trained to perform tasks, and all performance is tied to the bond that an animal has with humans; behavior modification happens as early as suggested for an animal to leave it's mother. This applies to all animals, not limited to dogs.

Service Dogs are with the mother until they are weaned no earlier than 8-9 weeks. Training starts even with the mother, but individual training by separation does not occur until 9 weeks.

If you are adopting a Service Dog as a puppy, we will not home them until they are at least three months old.

Can I adopt a dog that doesn't qualify as a service dog?

Yes: we have a separate adoption program for dogs that are still in need of a loving home. A variety of other training programs are available. All adoptions require a deposit to qualify for a payment plan; and a home visit to ensure pet safety prior to adoption. Reach out to us for more information on our adoption process.

Can I request training for a dog that isn't for a disabled person?

Yes: we have a variety of training programs available, including but not limited to...

- hunting dogs: bird dogs, deer dogs, rabbit dogs, ect.

- guard dogs; children, domestic violence victims, at risk individuals, and livestock protection. We do NOT train dogs to be used in dog fighting. People of even slight suspiscion of searching for dogs for fighting rings will be reported immediately to the local animal protection authority and civil government.

- cadaver dogs

- search and rescue dogs

- farm dogs, such as those that pull a cart or sled

“Thanks to Herschel's Helpers, my service dog has brought immeasurable joy and support into my life. They truly go above and beyond to match each dog with the right person, and I am forever grateful for their dedication and expertise.”

— Samantha Johnson

Contact us

Reach out to us to learn more about our training programs and how we can help you find the perfect service dog companion.

Location

Herschel's Helpers
The Bronx, New York, United States

About us

Herschel's Helpers is a dedicated team of dog lovers and training professionals committed to making a difference in the lives of both dogs and humans. We rescue, rehabilitate, and train service dogs, providing them with a new purpose and individuals with disabilities with a new sense of independence and freedom. Our approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of the unique bond between humans and dogs.