Mobility Service Dogs
Mobility Assistance Dogs increase the independence of a person who uses a wheelchair, has trouble standing, and/or with ambulating. They perform tasks such as retrieving dropped items and opening doors.
Ben retrieves items dropped on the floor | These dogs are valuable assets for the person returning to the work force or school because they decrease dependence on other people. When the dog-human team is out and about in the community, a definite change in the way the general public perceives disability, is readily seen. For hundreds of years our government has held a "hands off" policy regarding people with disabilities and until recently, as a society, we have successfully hidden people from the general population.
Founder Karen Shirk (left) says, "As a person who has a Mobility Assistance Dog partner. I have often said that Ben makes my disability ‘invisible.’ Before I had Ben, no one would approach me to start up a conversation and in stores people went out of their way to avoid me. Now, with Ben at my side, it could take me an hour just to get milk, because of everyone stopping me to inquire about Ben." |
Watch Videos on Mobility Assistance Dogs
Some Things Mobility Assistance Dogs Provide
- Retrieve dropped items
- Bring the phone
- Open doors
- Turn lights on and off
- "Find _______________"
- Carry items in a dog backpack
- Hit a life line button to call for help
- Put laundry in the washer and take it out of the drier
- Assist with dressing and undressing
- Locate someone if help is needed
- Provide emotional and spiritual support
- Pulling a wheelchair chair up inclines and ramps, and for short distances
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Mobility Assistance Dog Alvin flies to visit his 4 year old recipient in Minneapolis, Service Dogs are allowed on all forms of public transportation. When they fly on an airplane, they are allowed to sit in the passenger seating with their partner. |
Who Would Benefit From The Use Of A Mobility Assistance Dog?
Mobility Assistance Dogs can benefit people with a variety of disabilities, including but not limited to:
- Spinal cord injury
- Brain injury
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Arthritis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Spina Bifida
- Cerebral Palsy
- Pulmonary disorders
- Balance problems (Ataxia)
Judy and her Mobility Assistance Dog, Bailey |
Clair and Mobililty Assistance dog, Xavier (Maryland 2006) |
Thanks to Deangate Goldens for Donating Xavier to 4 Paws!
If you think a Mobility Assistance Dog would benefit your child, please take a moment to read about how our program works. Click on the FAQ link "FAQ" and read through the questions and answers.
Click on the appropriate link to download an application for a service dog from 4 Paws for Ability
The 4 Paws recipient and their family are involved in the entire process, from application, through fundraising, and on to training. The dog is chosen specifically to meet the child's needs. Once we decide on a dog, a picture is sent and the child can name the dog. We want our families to know the dog is theirs, the dog will help them, and the dog will be in their possession quickly because they are working to make that happen!
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