Time and again we receive inquiries such as:
“I trained my assistance dog myself – could we do an ADI test with you?”
“My trainer is not ADI-certified – but I would like to get ADI recognition with my dog. Is that possible?”
The honest answer to this is: No – ADI certification is not just an audit, but a comprehensive process.
What does FDI actually mean?
ADI stands for Assistance Dogs International, the world’s leading association for assistance dog organizations. Only recognized members are allowed to apply the ADI standards and conduct tests on this basis.
As an accredited partner, we meet strict requirements – and bear responsibility for them. ADI certification may only be awarded if:
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the training of the dog and the human has been demonstrably accompanied for months,
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the team was regularly evaluated,
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the audit is carried out in accordance with defined international standards,
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and ongoing follow-up support is also ensured after the audit.
Why can’t we offer an “external” ADI audit?
If a dog has been trained at another training center or on your own, we unfortunately cannot retroactively guarantee quality assurance. A one-off test is not sufficient to meet the high requirements of the ADI – neither in terms of content nor form.
We understand the desire for ADI recognition – but we ask for your understanding that we only offer this to teams that have completed their training (for at least 6 months) under our guidance.
What is possible?
If you are interested in subsequently training your already trained team for ADI-compliant certification, please contact us. Under certain conditions, integration into our system is possible – provided that long-term follow-up support is also guaranteed.
For everyone else: We will be happy to advise you openly and honestly on which paths are realistic and sensible – for you, your dog and a responsible future as an assistance dog team.
Important to know:
This article provides general information. For specific legal questions, please contact a specialist office or a legal advisor.
Author: Katharina Küsters
