Through Dream Acres FASD Community – Topeka, Kansas
Not every dog is destined to become a full-time service animal. At FASDogs, we lovingly refer to these dogs as career changers—intelligent, well-socialized companions who are better suited to a forever home than to service work.
These amazing dogs are available for adoption through Dream Acres, a pioneering residential community supporting individuals and families impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). When you adopt a dog through our program, you’re gaining a loyal companion and directly supporting a nonprofit mission.
🐶 Who Are Career Change Dogs?
Career change dogs are dogs who began training for service but were redirected due to:
- Mild health conditions (e.g., minor allergies or joint sensitivity)
- Temperament better suited to companionship than full-time service
- Sensory or behavioral preferences not aligned with high-demand roles
These dogs may include:
- Young adults (1–2 years old) – fully trained or nearly complete in their training
- Retired seniors – calm, loving dogs ready to relax
- Puppies – released early from training due to specific personality traits
Regardless of age, they are:
✔️ House-trained
✔️ Leash- and crate-trained
✔️ Socialized with people and other animals
✔️ Evaluated for their ideal home setting
💲 Adoption Fee: $2,500
Adopting a career change dog from FASDogs requires a $2,500 donation, which covers:
What the fee includes:
- Veterinary care (spay/neuter, vaccines, microchip, wellness checks)
- Temperament evaluation and behavior assessment
- Basic training and socialization
- Food, housing, and enrichment while in our care
- Transition support and consultation after adoption
How it helps our 501(c)(3) mission:
- Funds continued training of future FASDogs for individuals with FASD
- Supports the Dream Acres community’s integrated pet therapy and enrichment programs
- Ensures our dogs receive high-quality care regardless of their service outcome
Tax deductible: Your fee is considered a charitable contribution under federal tax law.
🏡 Is a Career Change Dog Right for You?
These dogs thrive in a range of homes, from active individuals looking for an energetic companion to retirees seeking a mellow friend. They are ideal for:
- Families with stable routines
- Adults seeking a trained dog without puppy-stage challenges
- FASD-friendly households with structure and patience
- Those who want to support a meaningful nonprofit mission
Note: Some dogs may require follow-up care, medications, or routine accommodations. We’re transparent about each dog’s needs and background.
📋 How to Apply
The adoption process includes:
- Filling out an application
- Reference and background checks
- Meet-and-greet visit (in-person or virtual)
- Home check and transition planning
- Adoption agreement and donation
We work hard to match each dog to the right home — it’s not first-come, first-served, but best-fit for both dog and adopter.
🐕 You’re Giving a Dog a Second Chance—and a Life-Changing Impact
By adopting a career change dog, you’re not only welcoming an incredible companion into your life—you’re also strengthening the mission of FASDogs and Dream Acres: supporting individuals impacted by FASD with dignity, innovation, and compassion.
Ready to meet your new best friend?