What is the cost?
We do not charge clients for their service dog; however, all clients need to demonstrate financial ability to provide vet care, vet insurance, a safe home environment, quality food, and treats for the dog’s life.
Clients are also responsible for all travel costs, including lodging to attend assessments and required training.
How long is the wait for a dog?
The wait to receive a service dog can range anywhere from a few months to several 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.
What is Summit’s COVID and mask policy?
Winter 2023 COVID/FLU season update:
Summit Assistance Dogs continues to follow the recommendations of the CDC. At this time, we do not require clients, applicants, and/or volunteers to be fully masked while participating in Summit scheduled activities and events; however, masks are always encouraged. All Summit Assistance Dogs staff will remain masked in the presence of clients while indoors, and understand that for some clients, masking can create additional communication challenges. Summit staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and will reschedule events in the case of exposure or illness. We will try to increase space and airflow for indoor activities and will schedule activities to take place outdoors when the weather allows. If you have any concerns about masking or this policy in general, please let us know, and we are happy to accommodate any needs.
What happens after I am accepted onto the waitlist?
While waiting, two or more additional assessments at our facility or a location in the Seattle area are usually required to further evaluate the applicant’s needs to ensure the best match. A dog matching assessment will occur at such time as we believe we have a potential service dog for you.
Dogs may be assessed with several applicants to determine the best fit.
Once an appropriate match is made and accepted by you, specialized team training begins.
If accepted as a client, will I be required to participate in fundraising or public relations activities?
No applicant or client will be required to participate in fundraising or public relations activities without their expressed and voluntary permission.
If I begin the application process, may I withdraw at any point without repercussions?
The relationship between Summit and our applicants/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.
What happens at Team Training?
Team training is generally held twice a year at our facility on Whidbey Island or a nearby Seattle location. It is a two-week period of intensive training for applicants to learn to work with and care for their Summit dogs. Except for necessary caretakers or parents of minors/those under guardianship, applicants attend team training alone to minimize distractions and maximize the opportunity for bonding with their dogs. Applicants are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and meal expenses while attending team training.
*Note, due to COVID safety precautions, some parts of Team Training may be held remotely, and/or other changes and arrangements may be made to ensure everyone’s safety.
What happens after Team Training?
Once partnered, you will be required to attend Summit’s annual graduation ceremony and participate in our follow-up procedures to ensure a continued successful working relationship with your 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.