Wheelchair / Mobility Assistance

Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance Service Dogs is typically combined into the term, Mobility Assistance Dogs. While both Psychiatric and Autism Service Dogs provide minimal physical assistance, the Wheelchair/Mobility Service Dogs primary focus is assisting their owners in a number of tasks requiring tangible effort. When an individual is diagnosed with a condition that impacts his/her quality of life, a Wheelchair/Mobility Service Dog can help with regaining an independence once lost.

Common Disability Types

  • Some of our Service Dogs will be cross-trained with a few tasks similar to what Wheelchair/Mobility Service Dogs are proficient at. However, the following types of disabilities may require a fully trained Wheelchair/Mobility Service Dog:

    • Arthritis
    • Brain Injury
    • Coordination Problems
    • Muscular Dystrophy
    • Vertigo
    • Amputation

Tasks

Our Service Dogs will all receive foundational training to include basic obedience, public access training and advanced socialization. Our Wheelchair/Mobility Service Dogs will receive individual plans that meet the requirements for its human partner. The specialized training will make the dog proficient in a number of tasks which may include:

  • Picking up objects
  • Name recognition for lost objects (Find my keys)
  • Counterbalance Support
  • Turning on and off lights or light switches
  • Opening and closing doors
  • Support with getting up or sitting down
  • Pushing buttons for elevators or automatic doors