Atlas Assistance Dogs (Bellevue, WA) is a nonprofit that empowers people with disabilities to train their own service dogs, using positive, ethical, science-based methods. Programs include “Client Certification” for handlers with dogs at least 14 months old, online and in‐person foundational and specialized training courses (e.g. Service Dog Foundations, Service Dog Selection), and a facilitator program to support teams over a multi-month training path. Private pay is required for many courses, no clear indication of insurance coverage.
A well-trained service dog can make meaningful change in the life of someone with a disability, helping them to live actively and independently. Unfortunately, there are many individuals with disabilities who would benefit from a service dog but face significant obstacles in trying to obtain one. Their challenges can include organizations that only service specific populations, geographies, and dog breeds, as well as long waiting lists within these organizations due to an overwhelming need and few resources.
We do not provide fully trained service dogs or assess puppies for service work potential. Age of handler is not limited; dog must meet minimum training and temperament standards.
