Atlas helps people and their dogs every single day.Â
We do this with the incredible support and partnership of our volunteers, trainers, clients and donors.Â
Below are just a few of the stories from some of our amazing clients who we have the privilege to work with.
These stories remind us that service dogs do much more than tasks for day to day survival. These dogs ensure that their human partners have the opportunity to live full and meaningful lives with joy and dignity. These stories also speak to the quality of life we want our service dogs to have, and that they too have time to rest, play, and truly enjoy the job they are doing.
Indi joined Atlas at 14 years old, searching for a service dog program that would accept an owner-trainer with a disability not commonly paired with service dogs. What she found was more than a trainer and a dog. She found a community that understood her, a support system that followed her to college, and a four-legged partner who makes her laugh every single day.
“Otto has really given me my independence.” Now Indi is partnering with the Tourette Association of America to help others in her community discover what service dogs can offer — a dream she’s had ever since Otto came into her life.
This is what Atlas is about. Not just training dogs. Training teams. Building community. And being there for the long haul.
Molly was just 18 when she developed a seizure disorder that changed her life overnight. Hear her story about her journey training her service dog, how he ensures she can have an independent life, and how she now focuses full-time helping others who would similarly benefit from a service dog.
Ellen has struggled with mental health issues for decades. Learn more about what the process was like training her own dog to understand more about the challenges our clients face, and how her dog has helped keep her safe every day.
Alison struggles with severe anxiety due to childhood trauma. Find out how her service dog makes a difference every day, has been a powerful addition to the treatment she was already receiving, and helps her thrive every day.
Mike, one of the founders of Atlas, knows just how much difference a service dog can make. He has lived with Rheumatoid Arthritis for more than 30 years. Thanks to his service dog, he is able to be active in the things he loves in life. Find out how he and his dog work as partners, caring for each other.