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Your First Step Toward IADA Membership & Accreditation

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The International Assistance Dog Alliance (IADA) welcomes assistance dog organizations and trainers that share our commitment to high standards in training, ethics, and client support. Candidate Membership is the starting point for programs working toward full IADA membership and accreditation. It’s designed to provide guidance while you build the systems, skills, and practices needed to meet our standards.

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Why Become a Candidate Member?

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As a Candidate Member, you’ll:​

  • Access Mentorship & Resources – Receive guidance from experienced members to help you reach accreditation.

  • Demonstrate Commitment – Show clients, partners, and funders that you are actively working toward recognized international standards.

  • Grow with Support – Get access to IADA’s testing protocols, best practice documents, and operational templates.

 

Candidate Member Eligibility

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To apply, your organization should:

  • Be a registered legal entity in your country of operation.

  • Be actively developing or running an assistance dog program.

  • Have placed or be in the process of training assistance dog teams.

  • Commit to working toward full IADA membership standards.

 

The Candidate Application Process

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  1. Complete the Application Form – Tell us about your mission, operations, and current training program.

  2. Provide References – Submit at least two professional references from industry peers, partners, or stakeholders. Then submit two handler references. 

  3. Participate in an Interview – Discuss your work and goals with IADA assessors.

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The Candidate Application Process

 

Once a trainer or organization has met all qualifications, they become eligible for full membership. Full membership demonstrates a proven commitment to excellence, advocacy, and the values of IADA. Members may proudly use the IADA name in their marketing and social media, showcasing their dedication to raising standards and advancing the cause of assistance dog teams worldwide.

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Take the First Step

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Becoming a Candidate Member means committing to growth, quality, and the life-changing impact of well-trained assistance dogs.

 Join a global community dedicated to raising the bar for assistance dog programs everywhere.

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