Physical Assistance Service DOgs
Meet Bruce and SDV Whit
Bruce is a quadriplegic and an amazing artist. He draws by holding a pencil in his mouth. Whit will be right there to pick up the pencil if Bruce drops it. Whit also opens doors, retrieves items, and gets help if Bruce needs it.
How They Help
Physical Assistance Dogs can assist with tasks such as:
Opening and closing doors
Picking up and retrieving dropped items
Delivering items to a person’s hands, surface, or basket
Removing socks or sweatshirts
Retrieving a cordless phone or cell phone
Greater Freedom. Increased Independence. Enhanced Safety.
Service Dogs of Virginia trains Physical Assistance Dogs to help individuals with physical disabilities who use electric wheelchairs or scooters. These highly skilled dogs increase freedom, independence, and daily safety for their handlers.
Please note: At this time, SDV is not placing dogs for balance or mobility support.
Eligibility & Application Process
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Must be at least 18 years of age
Must have physical disability, debilitating chronic illness, or a neurological disorder
Must use electric wheelchair or scooter
Be able to navigate their environment without the assistance of others
Please see Applicant Criteria for more criteria
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Learn How to Apply for a service dog
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Laura relies on a power wheelchair and has very limited use of her hands. Her service dog, Judith, helps her every day by retrieving items and picking up anything she drops — tasks that would otherwise be out of reach. But Judith’s most important job is simply being by Laura’s side, day and night.
Click the video to hear more about their incredible partnership.
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