Programs & services
Listed on the organization's official site (veterans.illinois.gov), checked Aug 28, 2026. Always confirm availability with the organization.
- Service Dogs/Guide DogsVeterans determined to have a physical disability may qualify to receive a service dog or guide dog through the VA with VA approval.
- VA veterinary health care and other benefits for service dogsEligible Veterans with guide dogs, and hearing and mobility service dogs received from an ADI- or IGDF-accredited organization.
Eligibility
With VA approval, veterans having been determined to have a physical disability may qualify to receive a service dog or guide dog through the VA. To receive benefits, maintain the integrity of the SD/GD program, and ensure Veterans are receiving dogs of the highest level of quality, and training standards, a dog must be received from an Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) accredited service dog organization.
How to apply
Summarized from the program's official site (veterans.illinois.gov), checked Aug 28, 2026. Always confirm details with the program.
- Register for VA health care at the Health Administration enrollment section of a VA Medical Center or online through the VA site listed on the page.
- Ask your assigned VA primary care provider for a referral to a specialist.
- Complete the specialist evaluation so a prescribing clinician can determine the need for assistive devices, including a service dog.
- If approved by VA, obtain the dog through an Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) accredited service dog organization.
What to expect
The specialist completes an evaluation and makes a clinical determination on the need for assistive devices, including a service dog. The page says each Veteran’s case is reviewed by a prescribing clinician based on ability to care for the dog and goals addressed by the dog or other assistive technology or therapy.
Contact
- Call the VA Education (GI Bill) Hotline at 1-888-442-4551Questions about GI Bill and VA education benefits.
- Serves all of Illinois
Next step
See every Illinois program for this need, how they fit together, and what to try first.
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Source: Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs, the official Illinois state veterans agency. Details can change; confirm directly with the program.
View source page (veterans.illinois.gov/services-benefits/service-animal.html)
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