MOBILITY SERVICE DOGS
Applications for our Mobility Service Dogs are now open.
Life-changing Mobilty Dogs
PADS mobility service dogs support individuals with physical disabilities (other than blindness) to live with greater independence, safety, and confidence. These dogs are carefully selected and extensively trained to assist with a wide range of functional tasks that reduce physical strain and increase accessibility in both home and community settings.
Mobility service dogs partner with clients living with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, and other mobility-impacting diagnoses. Each dog is trained to respond reliably to their handler’s unique needs, helping to remove barriers and promote greater participation in everyday activities. These dogs help conserve energy, reduce the risk of falls or injury, and enhance overall quality of life.
Tasks performed by PADS mobility service dogs may include:
- Opening and closing doors and cupboards
- Turning lights on and off
- Picking up dropped or hard-to-reach items
- Retrieving and carrying objects such as medication, phones, or wallets
- Assisting with safe transfers or positioning, where appropriate
In addition to physical assistance, clients often report increased confidence, emotional well-being, and a greater sense of independence as a result of working with their service dog.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
PADS mobility service dogs are placed with eligible clients across Western Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Each application is reviewed individually to ensure the best possible match between client and dog, with the goal of creating a safe, successful, and sustainable partnership.
To be considered for a Mobility Service Dog, applicants must:
- Have a diagnosed physical disability that impacts mobility or daily functioning
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Demonstrate the ability to care for and work consistently with a service dog
- Be willing to participate in training and ongoing follow-up support
Applications for our Mobility Service Dog Program are open from January 7, 2026, to April 7, 2026. Applications are capped at 100 applicants per program; therefore, applications may close before April 7, 2026. If capacity is available, we will reopen and establish a new cap. We will announce when our current cycle has closed, and applications will reopen in January-April 2027.
Sponsor a PADS Puppy
Donations make these incredible placements possible. Sponsor a PADS Puppy-In-Training and become part of something life-changing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Mobility Service Dog?
A mobility service dog is a highly trained assistance dog that supports individuals with physical disabilities (other than blindness) to live with greater independence, safety, and confidence. A PADS mobility service dog is trained to perform functional tasks to reduce physical strain and increase accessibility in both home and community settings.
Who can Apply for a PADS Mobility Service Dog?
Applicants must be 16 years of age or older, have a diagnosed disability relevant to the program they are applying for, and be able to care for and work consistently with a service dog. Applicants must also be willing to participate fully in training and ongoing follow-up support.
Where does PADS Place Mobility Service Dogs?
PADS places service dogs with eligible clients across Western Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
How Does the Application Process Work?
Each application is reviewed individually. PADS considers an applicant’s functional needs, lifestyle, and ability to care for a service dog to determine whether a placement may be appropriate.
The application process goes as follows:
- Application Form – Submit this form with accurate and complete information.
- Interview – Conducted online (MS Teams) or in person.
- Supporting Documents & Payment of Application Fee – Completion of a Medical History Form, submission of two reference letters, and payment of a $50 non-refundable application fee.
- Full Application Review – Confirmation that all required documents have been received. At this stage, you are considered for a PADS Mobility Service Dog.
- Waitlist & Updates – PADS will contact you when a potential match is available and will follow up periodically regarding any changes in your situation.
- Team Training – Once a match is confirmed, you will be given information about next steps, including a $250 Team Training Fee and arrangements for your training program
How Long is the Wait Time for a PADS Service Dog?
Because each placement depends on finding the right match between a client and a dog, wait times vary and cannot be predicted or guaranteed. Placements take into account the client’s needs and lifestyle, along with the dog’s skills and temperament. PADS is unable to provide individual wait time estimates.
Is Applying a Guarantee That I Will Receive a PADS Service Dog?
No, submitting an application does not guarantee placement. The goal of the process is to ensure a safe, successful, and sustainable partnership for both the client and the dog.
What is Involved in Training?
Successful applicants are required to participate in structured training with their service dog, as well as ongoing follow-up support after placement.
What kind of support does PADS provide after placement?
PADS provides ongoing guidance and follow-up to support both the client and the dog, helping to maintain a strong and effective working partnership over time.