APPLY FOR A MOBILITY SERVICE DOG

Summit Assistance Dogs specializes in training mobility service dogs for individuals residing in the Pacific Northwest. Our focused expertise allows us to meet the unique needs of each client—particularly those who require customized training and comprehensive post-placement support beyond what many organizations can offer.

Our expertly trained dogs help with everyday tasks such as retrieving dropped items, pushing buttons, turning lights on and off, opening and closing doors, tugging off clothing, and more—enhancing their partners’ safety, independence, and quality of life while providing loyal companionship.

Summit is proud to be fully accredited by Assistance Dogs International. We uphold the highest standards of humane, positive reinforcement–based training and are deeply committed to treating both our dogs and the individuals we serve with dignity and respect.


Who Qualifies

Summit accepts service dog applications from individuals of all ages whose injuries or medical conditions significantly impact their mobility. Dogs will only be placed with a client (or their parent or legal guardian) who has sufficiently demonstrated the ability to care for a dog financially, physically, and emotionally in a safe and stable environment.

Wait times for placement vary, as each match is carefully considered based on factors such as home environment, neighborhood setting, the presence of children or pets, public access needs, and whether an applicant is ambulatory or uses a wheelchair. Our goal is to create the strongest possible partnership for both client and dog within a reasonable timeframe.

Currently, full-time wheelchair users are typically experiencing shorter wait times, as we have dogs in training whose strengths align well with their needs. Individuals who are ambulatory but experience instability may encounter longer wait times due to the specific skill sets required to support a safe and effective partnership. In some cases, if we do not anticipate a suitable match within a reasonable timeframe, we may recommend exploring other accredited programs.

At this time, Summit serves the Pacific Northwest region, including western Washington and Oregon, and the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. Applicants outside this area or those seeking a different type of assistance dog are encouraged to visit Assistance Dogs International to explore other accredited programs and resources.

Ready to apply? Click here to begin the process

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We do not charge clients for their service dog; however, all clients need to demonstrate financial ability to provide vet care, vet insurance, grooming, quality food, monthly parasite prevention, and enrichment items such as chew items, toys, and treats for the dog’s life. Clients are also responsible for all travel costs, including lodging to attend assessments and required training.

    A $100 application processing fee is charged upon applying for a service dog.

  • The wait time to receive a service dog can range from just a few months to sometimes a few years. Matches are not made on a first-come, first-served basis. We are very careful in matching dogs with clients, making sure it’s the best possible fit, both in terms of tasks and temperament. When a dog is ready for placement, we review our list of waiting clients to determine potential matches.

  • While it is sometimes possible for a service dog to live successfully with other dogs in the home, doing so can make placement more challenging. Because we receive many applications and must make difficult decisions about whom we can accept, we currently consider applications from individuals with dogs only if (a) the existing dog is a well-trained, friendly companion dog for someone else living in the home or (b) a service dog nearing retirement.

    All applications to Summit Assistance Dogs are carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

  • While on the waitlist, additional assessments may be scheduled at our facility or another location in the Seattle area to help us further understand each client’s needs and ensure the best possible match. When we identify a potential service dog for a client, a dog matching assessment will take place. In some cases, a dog may be evaluated with several applicants to determine the most suitable partnership.

    Once a match is made and accepted by the client, specialized team training begins.

  • No client will be required to participate in fundraising or public relations activities without their expressed and voluntary permission.

  • The relationship between Summit and our clients is at will. You have the right to withdraw from the process at any time. Should you choose to withdraw, your application fee is not refundable.

  • Team training is generally held 2-3 times per year at our facility on Whidbey Island or another location in the Seattle area. It is a two-week period of intensive training for clients to learn to work with and care for their Summit dog. Except for caregivers or parents of minors/those under guardianship, clients ideally attend team training alone to minimize distractions and maximize the opportunity for bonding with their dog. Clients are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meal expenses while attending team training.

  • Once partnered, clients are required to participate in our follow-up procedures to ensure a continued successful working relationship with their dog.

    Follow-up lasts for the working life of your dog. To ensure that our dogs and clients are set up for success, we require participation in follow-up visits at our facility at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months and then annually thereafter (more frequently if needed). Written progress reports must be submitted to Summit monthly for the first six months after placement.

    All public access service dogs are required to pass an annual public access test. Graduates are responsible for contacting Summit to schedule these tests and follow-ups.