Association of Assistance Dogs SA
The Association of Assistance Dogs SA is a key initiative created under DiSA’s Accessible Cities platform. It is dedicated to promoting the use of professionally trained Assistance Dogs to enhance the independence and quality of life of individuals with disabilities.
Assistance Dogs are life-changing partners that empower individuals with disabilities to navigate daily challenges with confidence. By setting training standards, registering Assistance Dogs, and collaborating with leading training organisations, the Association of Assistance Dogs seeks to ensure that these dogs are trained, respected, recognised, and able to perform their vital roles effectively.
To this end, the “Association” works closely with various “qualified Training Facilities” to set the standards for Assistance Dog Training and to ensure that all Assistance Dogs registered through the “Association meet strict ethical and professional guidelines.
What Are You Looking For?
1. Paws4life & DiSA Partnership
2. Paws4life Training Academy
3. Paws4life Courses
i. People with Physical Impairments or Diabetes
ii. People with Intellectual, Psychosocial or Neurological Impairments
iii. Persons who are Deaf or have Hearing Impairments
iv. Therapy Dogs/Pets
4. Contact Paws4life
5. Current and Future Plans
6. How Can We Help You?
The Association of Assistance Dogs SA is dedicated to advancing the rights and recognition of Assistance Dogs in South Africa by:
1. Educating the public, businesses, and service providers about the rights of Assistance Dogs.
2. Advocating for equal access to public spaces for individuals with Assistance Dogs.
3. Addressing discrimination and misconceptions regarding Assistance Dogs and public accessibility.
4. Collaborating with airlines, travel operators, tourism agencies and transport services to ensure Assistance Dog handlers receive equal treatment with dignity and respect.
For more information about the Association of Assistance Dogs South Africa, please read the information directly below.
What are Assistance Dogs?
Assistance Dog is a generic term for a Guide, Hearing, or Service Dog specifically trained to do three or more tasks to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability. Assistance Dogs are covered under legislative access laws for public access rights when working with their handler. Emotional Support Dogs and Therapy Dogs. Each category of training services a different need. With one exception, Assistance Dogs can be trained to fulfill specific tasks, whilst also functioning as emotional support dogs.
1. Mobility Assistance Dogs
Assistance Dog is generic term for a Guide, Hearing, or Service Dog specifically trained to do three or more tasks to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability.
Assistance Dogs are covered under legislative access laws for public access rights when working with their handler.
View information below about:
– Types of Assistance Dogs
– Accredited Training Facilities
– Laws and Regulations
– Equipment Required
2. Multipurpose Service Dogs
Assistance Dog is generic term for a Guide, Hearing, or Service Dog specifically trained to do three or more tasks to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability.
Assistance Dogs are covered under legislative access laws for public access rights when working with their handler.
View information below about:
– Types of Assistance Dogs
– Accredited Training Facilities
– Laws and Regulations
– Equipment Required
2. Diabetic Alert Dogs
Emotional Support Dogs are companion animals that provide emotional or therapeutic support to an individual with a mental health condition or emotional disorder simply by being present.
Emotional Support Dogs do not have the same right to public access as an Assistance Dog.
View information below about:
– Training of Emotional Support Dogs
– Training Facilities that are available to assist you.
A Therapy Dog is a pet dog trained to provide affection, comfort, and love in both personal and/or professional settings.
Therapy dog owners visit facilities, with their dogs, by invitation only, either as guests or practitioners. Using the dog in a professional setting. They are not covered under the legislative public access laws, and do not have the same public access rights as an Assistance Dog.
View information below about:
– Training of Therapy Dogs, and
– Training Facilities are available to assist you.
Assistance Dog is generic term for a Guide, Hearing, or Service Dog specifically trained to do three or more tasks to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability.
Assistance Dogs are covered under legislative access laws for public access rights when working with their handler.
View information below about:
– Types of Assistance Dogs
– Accredited Training Facilities
– Laws and Regulations
– Equipment Required
4. Guide Dogs
Assistance Dog is generic term for a Guide, Hearing, or Service Dog specifically trained to do three or more tasks to mitigate the effects of an individual’s disability.
Assistance Dogs are covered under legislative access laws for public access rights when working with their handler.
View information below about:
– Types of Assistance Dogs
– Accredited Training Facilities
– Laws and Regulations
– Equipment Required
Emotional Support Dogs are companion animals that provide emotional or therapeutic support to an individual with a mental health condition or emotional disorder simply by being present.
Emotional Support Dogs do not have the same right to public access as an Assistance Dog.
View information below about:
– Training of Emotional Support Dogs
– Training Facilities that are available to assist you.
A Therapy Dog is a pet dog trained to provide affection, comfort, and love in both personal and/or professional settings.
Therapy dog owners visit facilities, with their dogs, by invitation only, either as guests or practitioners. Using the dog in a professional setting. They are not covered under the legislative public access laws, and do not have the same public access rights as an Assistance Dog.
View information below about:
– Training of Therapy Dogs, and
– Training Facilities are available to assist you.
Advocacy & Public Awareness
AADSA aims to advocate for the inclusion and accommodation of Assistance Dog teams in various aspects of society, by:
– Educating the public, businesses, and service providers on the rights and benefits of Assistance Dogs.
– Promoting equal access to public spaces, workplaces, and transportation for Assistance Dogs and their users.
– Addressing discrimination and misconceptions about Assistance Dogs.
* Assistance Dog Registration and Ethical Standardisation
To establish and uphold ethical standards for the training, handling, and care of Assistance Dogs, ensuring their well-being and the safety of individuals with disabilities. AADSA is committed to promoting best practices that prioritise the welfare of both dogs and handlers.
– The Association establishes and maintains standards for Assistance Dog training by the companies registered with the Association.
– All Assistance Dogs trained by associated organisations are registered under the association,
– All dogs trained by associated members are compliant with ethical and professional training guidelines.
– Registration provides official recognition by the Association, granting Assistance Dog users support by the Association.
* Collaboration and Networking: – Partnered Training Organisations
To facilitate collaboration and networking opportunities among Assistance Dog organisations, trainers, handlers, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders. AADSA aims to create a supportive environment for sharing experiences, expertise, and innovative ideas.
The association works with leading Assistance Dog training facilities in South Africa to uphold these high standards, including:
– Smart Service Dog – Specializing in training Assistance Dogs for various disabilities.
– Paws4life Training Academy – Focused on obedience, therapy, and Assistance Dog training.
– Honey’s Garden for Medical Alert Dogs SA – Dedicated to training dogs for medical alert purposes, including seizure and diabetic alert dogs.
These organisations collaborate with DiSA as part of its Accessible Cities Initiative to ensure that:
– High training standards are maintained across all registered Assistance Dogs.
– Airlines, businesses, and public spaces recognize, and respect Assistance Dogs trained by companies within the association.
– Assistance Dog users experience greater accessibility and acceptance in society.
* Support & Resources for Individuals
– Providing guidance on acquiring and training an Assistance Dog through recognised training programs.
– Offering peer support to individuals integrating Assistance Dogs into their daily lives.
– Educating workplaces, businesses, and the public on how to accommodate Assistance Dogs.
* Education and Training
To provide educational resources, workshops, seminars, and training programs that empower Assistance Dog handlers, trainers, and the public. AADSA aims to foster a knowledgeable community that understands the roles and responsibilities of Assistance Dog teams.
* Legislation and Policy Advocacy
To advocate for the development and enforcement of laws and policies that recognise Assistance Dogs as valuable service animals and safeguard the rights of individuals with disabilities. AADSA is dedicated to promoting equal access and eliminating discrimination.
* Research and Innovation
To support research initiatives that contribute to the advancement of Assistance Dog training techniques, the understanding of the human-animal bond, and the overall impact of Assistance Dogs on the well-being of people with disabilities.
* Public Outreach and Partnerships
To engage with communities, schools, healthcare institutions, and other relevant organisations to promote the positive impact of Assistance Dogs. AADSA aims to build partnerships that foster inclusivity and enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.
* Empowerment and Support
To empower individuals with disabilities and their families by providing resources, guidance, and emotional support throughout their journey with Assistance Dogs. AADSA is committed to working with the Training Facilities to help handlers realise their full potential and lead independent lives.
* Continuous Improvement
To continuously assess and improve the standards, practices, and effectiveness of Assistance Dog training, accreditation, and support services in South Africa. AADSA aims to adapt to evolving needs and advancements in the field.
* International Collaboration
To collaborate with international organisations and experts in the field of Assistance Dogs to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and stay informed about global developments. AADSA aims to contribute to the advancement of Assistance Dog programs worldwide.
By pursuing these aims, the Association of Assistance Dogs South Africa seeks to create a society where individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities, improved mobility, and enhanced well-being through the partnership with their trained Assistance Dogs.
How can we help you?
At Disability Info South Africa (DiSA), we are committed to breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive society.
One of the most life-changing forms of support for individuals with disabilities is an Assistance Dog —
a highly trained companion that provides mobility support, medical alerts, and emotional assistance.
We provide information on eligibility, application processes, and legal rights regarding assistance dogs.
Ensuring businesses and public spaces are ‘assistance-dog friendly’ and compliant with accessibility standards.
Educating organizations and individuals on the importance and rights of assistance dog users.
Connecting individuals with the right support networks, including AADSA, to help them on their journey.
If you or someone you know could benefit from an assistance dog, or if you’re a business wanting to improve accessibility, get in touch with us today! Together, we can create a world where independence has no limits!