We are honored to announce that Atlas Assistance Dogs has officially earned full accreditation from Assistance Dogs International (ADI)!
This marks a defining moment in our organization’s journey, one that affirms our commitment to the highest standards of ethical, humane, and effective service dog training.
Why ADI Accreditation Matters
ADI is a worldwide coalition of nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the partnership of highly trained assistance dogs. To achieve accreditation, programs must meet rigorous international standards covering every aspect of their operations, from dog training and client education to governance, financial practices, and ethics.
This achievement places Atlas among an elite group of service dog organizations recognized for excellence, accountability, and impact. However, what makes this milestone truly remarkable is that Atlas is one of the few ADI-accredited organizations supporting owner-trainers.
Raising the Bar for Owner-Trainer
Since our founding, Atlas has worked to redefine what’s possible for people with disabilities who wish to train their own service dogs. ADI accreditation confirms that this model not only works, but it works at the highest level.
Our certified teams demonstrate:
- Exceptional training standards, grounded in science-based, positive, and force-free methods.
- Thorough, individualized education, ensuring both dogs and handlers are equipped for lifelong success.
- Ethical and humane practices, where the well-being of dogs and clients always comes first.
Opening Doors for Clients and Partners
For the first time, owner-trainers who graduate through Atlas’ certification program gain recognition and access equivalent to other ADI-accredited teams. That can mean smoother travel abroad, improved access to housing and public spaces, and greater trust from employers, institutions, and the public.
International travel: Many airlines and countries require service dogs to come from ADI-accredited programs. Our clients can now travel internationally with fewer barriers, knowing their training meets globally recognized standards.
Expanded support for veterans and active-duty military personnel: ADI-accredited organizations are often eligible for additional benefits and funding opportunities specifically designed for veterans. For active-duty service members, many military bases require certification from an ADI-accredited organization.
Stronger collaborations and community trust: Accreditation connects Atlas to a global network of peer organizations dedicated to continuous improvement, shared learning, and advocacy. It also reassures our donors, volunteers, and partners that their investment supports a program built on integrity and excellence.
A Shared Achievement
This milestone belongs to everyone who has been part of Atlas’ story: our clients, volunteers, trainers, donors, and board members. Your dedication has helped build an organization that empowers people with disabilities to lead more independent, fulfilling lives alongside their dogs.
We are honored to join the ranks of fully accredited ADI organizations and proud to represent the owner-trainer community on this international stage.
Together, we are proving that positive, ethical, and inclusive training truly changes lives, one team at a time.
About Atlas Assistance Dogs
Atlas Assistance Dogs is a non-profit organization that fundamentally expands access to assistance dogs. We support people with disabilities to train and certify their own service dog using positive, ethical training methods. At Atlas, we believe anyone who would benefit from a qualified assistance dog should be able to have one.
We work with people with a wide range of disabilities who wish to train their own service dog as well as offer a comprehensive Academy for professional trainers wanting to become service dog trainers. For more information about Atlas’ Client Certification program or other training services, please visit www.atlasdog.org or contact info@atlasdog.org.
