Assistance Dogs International, Inc. is a coalition of not for profit organizations that train and place Assistance Dogs. The purpose of ADI is to improve the areas of training, placement, and utilization of Assistance Dogs as well as staff and volunteer education. Members of ADI meet regularly to share ideas, attend seminars, and conduct business regarding such things as educating the public about Assistance Dogs, and the legal rights of people with disabilities partnered with Assistance Dogs, setting standards and establishing guidelines and ethics for the training of these dogs, and improving the utilization and bonding of each team. ADI also publishes a newsletter for members and subscribers. If you are a not for profit provider of Assistance Dogs, ADI membership will be a benefit to you, and you can be a part of ADI's mission.

ADI's Mission

The objective of Assistance Dogs International, Inc. is to:

• Establish and promote standards of excellence in all areas of Assistance Dog acquisition, training and partnership
• Facilitate communication and learning among member organizations,
• Educate the public to the benefits of Assistance Dogs and ADI membership

Terminology

ADI uses terminology established by the industry that produces Assistance Dogs. The individuals who are partnered with these dogs have adopted this terminology. Terminology used in access laws varies from country to country and state to state. ADI is working to establish consistent terminology internationally.

Access Laws

ADI is working to establish consistent access laws with consistent terminology for individuals partnered with Assistance Dogs. Toward this effort, ADI has created a Model Law, to be presented to State Legislatures.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) is a professional organization of individual dog trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education.

The APDT offers individual pet dog trainers a respected and concerted voice in the dog world. We continue to promote professional trainers to the veterinary profession and to increase public awareness of dog friendly training techniques.