Applying for a Dog

To request an application packet contact: info@summitdogs.org

Types of Dogs Trained

Summit currently trains and places the following types of dogs:

• Service dogs for mobility assistance


• Hearing dogs


• Therapy dogs (for medically-fragile children, healthcare professionals, healthcare institutions, schools, etc).

Who qualifies

• Anyone who can demonstrate a real need and intent to utilize the services of an assistance dog can qualify.


• Summit has no upper or lower age limits. The applicant must demonstrate sufficient maturity and decision-making capability to manage the dog independently and assure a quality life for the animal. Therapy or service dogs for young children must be under the stewardship of a responsible adult.


• Summit does not charge a specific fee for dogs but applicants are expected to contribute as they are able and to take an active part in fundraising efforts towards the cost of their dog. Please see financing information below.


• Summit primarily makes placements within the Pacific Northwest but will consider nationwide placements when follow up care can be assured.

Financing

The cost of acquiring, training and placing an assistance dog ranges from $10,000-$20,000 depending on skills required. Summit recognizes the fact that many people are unable to afford the full cost of a dog and we are engaged in continual fundraising efforts to make it possible for all who seek this partnership to achieve it regardless of financial ability. However, each hour spent fundraising is one less hour spent training dogs. The waiting list grows and with it the waiting time for a dog. We expect our applicants, therefore, to contribute financially and to be actively engaged in their own fundraising efforts to the extent that they are able. We are happy to explore different ideas. Scholarships are available to assure that no one is denied a dog based on financial ability.

Program Requirements

• Applications must be completed before being processed.


• Applicants are required to attend a minimum of 3 assessment days between the time of acceptance into our program and being matched with a dog. Assessment days are held in Anacortes, Washington, and are used to further assess the needs and abilities of the applicant before team training takes place. Travel/lodging expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.


• Applicants are required to attend a team training course lasting 7-14 days depending on the type of dog being placed and the needs of the applicant. This intensive training course is conducted in Anacortes, Washington, and applicants are responsible for their own travel/lodging expenses.


• After placement, the team enters into a 6-month probationary period. At the end of this period, ownership of the dog may be transferred to the client provided both parties agree that the match is successful and the dog is being handled according to Summit’s guidelines. A contract must be signed outlining the responsibilities and rights of the client and the organization at this time. Until such time, Summit reserves the right to deny or revoke placement of a dog for any reason at any time.


• Once ownership of the dog is transferred, the client is responsible for covering all expenses for the dog including medical and equipment expenses. During the 6-month probationary period the client is responsible for all routine costs involved in caring for the dog such as food, grooming, boarding, flea treatment, etc. Summit will cover veterinary expenses until transfer of ownership takes place.


• After graduation, follow-up visits will be required for the life of the dog and will generally take place in Anacortes, Washington, with all travel/lodging expenses being the responsibility of the client. Visits are typically scheduled as follows but may be required more or less often depending on the progress and needs of the client and dog:


• 1st year - monthly for 6 months, then at 9 months and 12 months


• 2nd year - every 6 months


• Thereafter ­ yearly recertification for public access and follow-up training as needed


• Written monthly reports are required for the first six months and as deemed necessary thereafter.

The Application Procedure

1. Contact info@summitdogs.org (preferred) or (360) 293-5609 to request an application packet. Person who wishes to receive a dog must make this contact unless a request is being made for a child.


2. Submit completed application including assistance dog application form, medical history forms, essay or recording, reference letters and a $25 non-refundable application fee.


3. Application will be reviewed by staff upon receipt. Those applicants who qualify for our program will be contacted to schedule an interview.


4. An interview will be conducted to help our organization and the applicant to get to know each other further and give the applicant the opportunity to (a) explore the concept of a Summit dog in depth, (b) meet some of our dogs in training, and (c) have any questions answered. Whenever possible, the interview will be held in the applicant’s home with all persons sharing the household. Applicants are evaluated thoroughly to ensure understanding of each individual’s specific needs, desires, requirements, and suitability for an assistance dog.


5. After the interview, the applicant will be notified regarding acceptance into the program. If accepted, applicant will then need to attend a minimum of 3 assessment days in order to help our training staff make an appropriate match. One assessment day will be scheduled shortly after acceptance. The remaining two will be scheduled when we have a potential match shortly before the team training course begins.


6. The applicant will be notified when a suitable dog has been chosen and will be invited to attend the next scheduled team training course. Graduation takes place after successful completion of the 7-14 day team training course.