Bring calm, connection, and real results to your school—by socializing a facility dog in training. Educators, counselors, and administrators are discovering how these highly trained dogs support emotional regulation, improve behavior, and boost school culture—while giving staff a firsthand look at the life-changing impact of a service dog on campus.

What happens when service dogs in training clock in for the day? From boardrooms to bookshelves, our pups are mastering more than just commands—they're learning how to bring calm, confidence, and connection wherever they go. See how a few of our dogs spend their days “at work” (and yes, there are naps, belly rubs, and maybe some unofficial snack breaks).

She didn’t just walk beside him—she helped him find his place in the world. Discover how a Service Dog gave one young man the courage to step into a future he once thought was out of reach.

Walking a dog isn’t just great exercise; it’s a powerful way to boost mental well-being, reduce stress, and create a meaningful bond. For Service Dogs Alabama, volunteer dog walkers play a crucial role in preparing future service dogs for their life-changing work. Ready to make a difference—one walk at a time? Learn more about the benefits of dog walking and how you can get involved!

Charles Dickens wrote of transformation – how a single act of kindness could change a life forever. Today, at Service Dogs Alabama, we witness our own tales of transformation, where four-legged heroes write new chapters in their handlers' lives. Like Pip finding his way in "Great Expectations," our recipients discover new possibilities through the unwavering support of their service dogs. Read more about how these extraordinary partnerships are creating the kind of life-changing endings that Dickens himself would have celebrated.

Start 2025 with your canine best friend by setting goals that strengthen your bond and improve their quality of life! From getting active together and mastering new skills to exploring new places and focusing on wellness, our latest blog, New Year, New Leash on Life: Setting Goals with Your Dog in 2025, shares practical tips to help you and your pup thrive this year.

What does freedom look like? For one veteran, it arrived on four paws. This Christmas, discover how a service dog helped transform one woman's life from being housebound to embarking on new adventures. A story of hope, healing, and the extraordinary gift that can't be wrapped in a bow – but can change everything. Read how Service Dogs Alabama is creating holiday miracles that last all year long.

The holiday season is full of joy and magic—but it can also bring hidden dangers for your pup. From shiny tinsel to tempting turkey, it’s easy for dogs to get into trouble amidst the festivities. Check out our Holiday Safety Tips for Your Dog to learn how to keep your furry companion safe, happy, and stress-free all season long.

Discover practical tips like creating a calm environment, securing your tree, and why you should skip ham on your dog’s holiday menu.

What’s it like to raise a future service dog? 🐾 Peek into a day with Nova, the spirited pup who's stealing hearts (and occasionally socks)! From playful mornings to heartfelt moments, discover the joys, challenges, and rewards of being a puppy raiser for Service Dogs Alabama. ❤️ Read more about Nova’s journey and how you can help shape a life-changing companion!

Service Dogs Alabama (SDA) is a non-profit organization serving children, adults, and Veterans with disabilities, as well as schools, youth facilities, and courtrooms. SDA is proud to announce becoming a fully accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI) who sets the gold standard for training and placement of service dogs. “We have been updating records and implementing training and safety methods to meet ADI standards. It has been a long and arduous process taking us two years and requiring documentation of every detail of a dog’s breeding, training, evaluation, and placement,” said Frances McGowin, SDA Executive Director. “Becoming an accredited member of ADI is the next step in the growth of our program.” ADI is a coalition of non-profit organizations from around the world that train and place many types of service dogs.