ABOUT US
AAAA started as the passion project of two service dog handlers/trainers who believe in the power of mutual aid. Service dog training can be expensive and inaccessible, disproportionately impacting multi-marginalized handlers. Our dream is to create a resource where people can access high quality service dog training resources without barriers-- One single link where one can connect the handler they see struggling in public access with all the information they need in order to be successful.
If you've made it to this page: Welcome. Maybe you are a long-time service dog handler or trainer, or maybe you are just getting started, Either way, there is a place for you here. We hope that we can help you on your journey, assisting you to live the independent life with disability that you deserve.
Core Values
Social Equity and Justice
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Nothing about us without us– Conversations about disability justice should be disabled-led. Conversations about service dogs must give owner trainers a seat at the table. The voices of large programs should not dominate those of owner trainers in the public eye, legislation, or in matters of access
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Disability is an intersectional issue– Service dog access should not be contingent upon race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, or other marginalized identity. Our grassroots, community-focussed efforts aim to uplift multi-marginalized voices within the service dog world and create greater equity in access to service dogs
Individual Liberty and Autonomy
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Think Independently– Break free from community trends and opinions. Focus on your individual needs, how to do right by yourself, and how to do right by your dog within the resources available to you.
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Empower the individual– We aim to improve access to service dogs, improve the behavior and skill of owner trained service dog teams, and improve the knowledge of the general public by empowering the individual. We connect owner trainers and the professionals that serve them with the information that they need to be successful.
Voluntary Cooperation and Mutual Aid
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Accessible training resources– With the assistance of qualified trainers, AAAA connects owner trainers with a library of free, accessible training resources (videos, ebooks, infographics and more). Additionally, AAAA keeps a database of vetted trainers, breeders, rescues, and other professionals knowledgeable in assisting owner trainers with their service dogs.
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Small action, big difference– Every service dog handler, trainer, advocate and ally has the opportunity to make a difference. Start a free training meet up, stick up for a local handler having an access issue, make a post. Every action matters for increasing access.
Anti-Authoritarianism and Anti-Statism
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Discourage Creeping Legislation– AAAA vehemently opposes any moves towards the creation of a national registration, certification, or service dog test within the US. Disabled people do not need more barriers to access, and any such authoritarian moves would only serve to further alienate multi-marginalized handlers.
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People Generally Do Their Best Within Their Means– The service dog police have no home here. Many individuals faking service animals truly need help or are victims to misinformation. Increase knowledge, increase access, decrease inter-community policing.