Our Service Dogs
At Medical Mutts, we pride ourselves on being unique among service dog organizations. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to rescuing dogs and giving them the opportunity to become life-changing service dogs, combined with deep expertise in medical alert and scent-detection training.
We are recognized internationally as leaders in medical detection and have helped pioneer evidence-based training methods that allow dogs to support individuals with conditions such as diabetes, seizures, psychiatric disorders, and other complex medical needs. All of our service dogs are scent-trained to recognize changes in their handler’s physiology, allowing for earlier alerts and increased safety.
We use evidence-based, humane training methods, select all of our dogs from shelters and rescues, and provide long-term support - including a no-cost replacement if a placement is not successful - to help partnerships succeed.
Specialized Medical Alert Dogs
Medical Mutts is known globally for training dogs to detect changes in human scent. Our primary focus includes diabetic alert, seizure alert, psychiatric alert, as well as other medical and support tasks when appropriate. We redefine what it means to partner with a service dog by prioritizing reliability, ethical training, and individualized placement.
Unlike many organizations or for-profit trainers who focus primarily on pets, our work centers entirely on disability support and medical alert reliability. Every candidate is rescued from a shelter and carefully selected for the temperament, resilience, and focus required for service work.
Led by renowned trainer Dr. Jennifer Cattet, our dogs receive structured, science-based training and contribute to ongoing research in the field of medical detection. Our methods emphasize kindness, confidence, and trust while avoiding harmful tools or aversive techniques.
Thoughtful Placement & Ongoing Support
Each placement is carefully matched to ensure compatibility between the client and dog. While based in Indianapolis, we place service dogs nationwide and provide 11 days of intensive, personalized team training at our facility to support a strong start.
Our commitment does not end at placement. All clients receive ongoing support at no additional cost, including access to our weekly live Zoom support meetings, where handlers can ask questions, troubleshoot challenges, and connect with trainers and other service dog teams as their partnership continues to grow.
Experience the Medical Mutts difference and begin a life-changing journey with a rescued service dog - built on expertise, compassion, and long-term support.
About Cost & Accessibility
Fully trained service dogs require months of individualized training, veterinary care, and long-term support. At Medical Mutts, client fees represent only a portion of the true cost of training, made possible through donor and grant support. Because each placement is unique, pricing is discussed individually during the application process.
What Service Dog Do You Need?
Your Path to a Medical Mutts Service Dog
Exploring Our Process and Your Path to a Life-Changing Companion
Click the link below to embark on a guided tour of the steps that lead to a powerful partnership. Our service dog journey is filled with compassion, training, and dedication to match you with the perfect companion. Find out how we can transform your life.
