Family Eligibility and Responsibilities

How to know if The Stink Bug Project is right for you

Our dog adoption program is designed to support families of children with diagnosed medical conditions in Colorado and some surrounding areas. Before applying for a dog, please review the information below to make sure it is a good fit for your family.

Please note that depending on dog availability, the entire process can take about 2-3 months. We appreciate your patience as we work to find you the perfect pet!

What to expect from the process

1. Review eligibility information
Estimated time: 10-15 minutes

Please review the Eligibility & Responsibilities documents linked on this page. Please note that families need to reside in Colorado or immediately adjacent states as onsite visits to the training facilities are required.

2. Complete the Online Interest Survey
Estimated time: 10-15 minutes

We’ll ask for information on your family, your child’s medical condition, your living situation, and what you’re looking for in a dog.

3. Complete Stink Bug Application
Estimated time: 30-45 minutes

If you are eligible based on your responses to the Interest Survey, we will send you a link to a longer online application via email.

4. Expect a call from the staff.
Estimated time: 10-15 minutes

After reviewing your application, we’ll give you a call to walk you through the process, ask a few additional questions, and answer any questions you may have.

5. Sign consent forms.
ALLOW 1-2 WEEKS TO GET PAPERWORK BACK FROM THE DOCTOR

Provide consent to allow program staff to reach out to your child’s doctor for approval.

6. Find the Right Fit
Estimated time: 1-2 Weeks

We work with you to find the perfect dog for your family. As new dogs become available to adopt, our team will provide recommendations for you to review.

If you already have a dog that you would like to send for training, we will schedule the 4-week boarding-in training for them at this time.

6. Complete final paperwork
Estimated time: 30 minutes

We’ll guide you through the process of completing the final adoption paperwork and scheduling your go-home day.

7. Attend a Go-Home Class
Estimated time: 2-3 hours

We’ll coordinate a “Go-Home Class” at one of the prison facilities where you will learn all of the commands and techniques the trainers used.

7. Welcome your furry friend into your home!
two kids and their dog
a kid and his dog
a dog with his ball

Frequently Asked Questions

Interested in adoption, but have questions about the process? We have answers!

two girls and their dog

Apply for a Stink Bug dog

Begin the process of finding the perfect furry friend for your family.