International Assistance Dog Alliance

Welcome to the International Assistance Dog Alliance (IADA)! 

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What We Do

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IADA is a professional, inclusive organization committed to setting and upholding high standards in the training, evaluation, and certification of assistance dogs and their handlers. Whether you’re a training organization, an independent trainer, or an owner-trainer, IADA exists to offer guidance, structure, and a supportive global community dedicated to the responsible development of assistance dog teams.

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Accreditation

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IADA’s accreditation process is designed to help the public identify ethical, trustworthy, and skilled assistance dog professionals. Accredited members demonstrate a commitment to humane training practices, the wellbeing of their dogs, and the creation of confident, capable teams. Our standards ensure that organizations and trainers are inclusive, ethical, and focused on excellence in both care and results.

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Testing

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In collaboration with Dauntless Companions, the founding training organization behind IADA, we offer free access to a variety of tests including AKC titles, in-training evaluations, public access testing, obedience, and trick dog tests. These tests are meant to support voluntary certification for assistance dog teams, while also encouraging bonding and enjoyment. Certification is not legally required or recognized in many regions, but for those who choose it, we aim to make the experience positive, empowering, and fun. Even if you don’t pass the first time, it’s all part of the journey.

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Dauntless Companions

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Dauntless Companions was the first step in a much bigger vision. Founded by Christy, what began as a small dog training business quickly grew into a thriving community. With a deep passion for accessibility and ethical training, Christy transitioned Dauntless Companions into a nonprofit model, making all IADA-related certification testing completely free of charge through her company. While Christy occasionally takes on private clients, her mission remains rooted in service and community.

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Resources

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Looking for guidance on your assistance dog journey? Our resource page offers everything from training tools to ADA information, gear guides, legal resources, and downloadable forms. We strive to make service dog education and support as accessible as possible—with many resources available for free or low cost.