Mobility Assistance Dogs
A Mobility Assistance Dog enables his recipient to be more mobile whether they are in a wheelchair, or use a walker, cane, or crutches. These dogs allow their handler to be more independent in day-to-day life. Little Angels will not only train mobility assistance dogs for adults, but also for children.
Check out what our very own staff member, Julia, has to say about her journey to a Mobility Assistance dog:
Commands
Retrieval & Get Help
Dogs are trained to retrieve hard to reach items on command, and can learn to retrieve specific items by name. This can be helpful for someone who can’t bend down to pick up an item that they dropped. Dogs can also be trained to alert someone else in the home on command. This is useful for the handler if they have fallen and can’t get up.
Commands
Hold It, Push Buttons & Lights
Dogs can be trained to carry items in their mouth when told. This is great for someone who walks with a walker or a cane who cannot carry something, such as their groceries. A dog can also be trained to push door buttons, elevator buttons, or turn lights on and off.
We Love Our Mobility Dogs!
Our Mobility Dogs work so hard knowing that they have an important job to do. Their recipients are so thankful for their service dog, since it makes day-to-day life so much easier.
Is a Little Angels Mobility Assistance Dog Right for Me?
In order to receive an Mobility Assistance Dog from Little Angels, you must:
- Have a disability that hinders your mobility, but have adequate upper body strength and muscle control in your arms.
- Have strong communication skills and the ability to be consistent with a dog regarding training exercises.
- Have a love for dogs.
- Have patience to work through problems (even a trained dog is still a dog).
- Have finances to provide your dog with veterinary care and maintenance for the next 10-12 years.
- Be willing to travel to San Diego, California or Bartlett, New Hampshire for handler training, preferably with a friend or family member for support