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The Domesti-PUPS Service-PUPS program helps  disabled individuals gain the independence they so greatly deserve. These dogs are taught to pick up dropped items from the floor, open doors, turn on light switches, provide balance, pull wheelchairs, and can even be taught to sort laundry. These special canines are taught anywhere from 30-90 commands over a two-year period before being placed with their future life partner. Clients of our Service-PUPS program attend a 12-day training camp. Transportation costs are the responsibility of the client. If you have interest in applying for a Service-PUP, please email info@domesti-pups.org to request an application.

Child Find is a special education service provided by the Dorchester County Public School System for identifying children from ages three through twenty-one who are suspected of having an educational disability and who may be eligible for special education and related services. Most referrals are made directly by a child?s parents. Referrals (with parental consent) are made by health care providers; social workers; child care providers; and other individuals familiar with the child?s development.

The Family Support Network (FSN) helps to meet the needs of families with children; birth to 3; with developmental delays or disabilities in Maryland. Each local FSN provides information to families regarding community services; refers families to local support groups; workshops; and advocacy groups; provides opportunities for families to network and share ideas and experiences; and helps to link ?experienced? parents to parents of newly identified children with similar special needs.

Programmatic Support and Technical Assistance BranchMaryland's Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education (Birth through 5)The supports and services provided through early intervention and preschool special education can help infants; toddlers and children and their families make the powerful connections to improve their ability to learn and play. These services are all based on the federal Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA); which ensure that all children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free and appropriate education (FAPE) to support their unique development and learning needs. The evidence has shown that one of the most effective ways to achieve this mandate is to reach children with developmental delays and disabilities when they are very young. Early intervention and education helps to open the window of opportunity for young children with disabilities and their families.