SDA Blog

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Tails of Transformation: Every Month Is Dog Month at SDA

Discover incredible true stories of assistance dogs saving lives, detecting seizures, and transforming independence for veterans, students, and families. From Cora’s snake detection to Tucker's seizure alerts, learn how these four-legged heroes work 365 days a year to create life-changing partnerships. Celebrate National Dog Month with inspiring tales of canine courage and find out how you can support assistance dog training programs.

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College, Crowds, and Canines: How One Student Socializes Service Dogs in the World of Sports

Think your schedule’s too packed to help train a service dog? Think again. Troy University student Maren balances classes, jobs, and campus life—while socializing future service dogs in training. From walking across campus to attending sports events, she proves that college students can make a real impact. If you can take a dog with you, you can help shape a life-changing partner for someone in need.

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Chalkboards and Chew Toys: Why Educators Make Excellent Dog Socializers

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.

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Four Paws on the Job: A Day at Work with a Service Dog in Training

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).

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Hillary Andrews Hillary Andrews

Walking Dogs: Who Benefits More—The Dog or the Person?

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!

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A Tail of Two Heroes: Service Dogs and Their Handlers

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.

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Hillary Andrews Hillary Andrews

New Year, New Leash on Life: Setting Goals with Your Dog in 2025

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.

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Hillary Andrews Hillary Andrews

A Christmas Gift Beyond Measure: How Cade Restored Hope and Freedom for CC

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.

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Hillary Andrews Hillary Andrews

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Dog: Keeping the Season Merry and Bright

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.

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Hillary Andrews Hillary Andrews

Super Nova: Bright Moments in a Puppy Raiser’s Day

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!

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