Discrimination against assistance dog handlers remains a pervasive global issue, with many individuals facing access refusals and significant barriers despite legal protections in numerous countries. The “Paws for Access Report on Assistance Dog Rights” underscores the urgent need for profound shifts in societal attitudes and behaviors, alongside the implementation of more inclusive policies and robust enforcement of existing legislation. Assistance Dogs International, Inc. (ADI), a worldwide coalition of non-profit organizations dedicated to training and placing assistance dogs, champions this cause. Founded in 1986 by seven pioneering programs, ADI has since ascended to become the foremost authority in the assistance dog industry.
Our Mission and Vision
ADI is committed to cultivating a collaborative global community that upholds the highest standards of excellence in human-dog partnerships. Our vision is to dismantle barriers worldwide, fostering exceptional human-dog partnerships and supporting a connected global network.
Core Values Guiding Our Work
Our operations and interactions are guided by a set of deeply held values:
- Respect: We treat all people and assistance dogs with profound respect, embedding care, empathy, and emotional safety in every interaction.
- Integrity: As a non-profit, member and community-driven organization, we hold ourselves accountable for exceeding expectations and acting with unwavering honesty.
- Excellence: We are dedicated to maintaining and exemplifying the highest quality of services and ethical practices through our commitment to excellent standards.
- Innovation: We embrace open-mindedness, curiosity, and continuous learning to meet the evolving needs of our global community and improve our practices.
- Collaboration: We foster relationships built on mutual trust, working together with all stakeholders dedicated to creating a brighter future for individuals partnered with assistance dogs.
Organizations that successfully navigate ADI’s rigorous accreditation process become ADI Accredited Member programs. These members are regularly assessed to ensure they consistently meet and exceed the highest industry standards.
Learn More about Membership Benefits and Discover How to Become a Member. You can also Search for ADI Accredited Members in your area.