The SDC program was developed in the United States, where there is no federal regulation of service dog trainers nor a federally recognized credential for them. The service dog world is much like the pet dog training world in regards to the lack of government regulation in many countries. However, the SDC program has been approved for continuing education units by many reputable professional organizations, including the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the International Association for Animal Behavior Consultants, the Karen Pryor Academy, the Pet Professional Guild (USA), and the Pet Professional Guild Australia.
Some of our graduates have successfully submitted the SDC credential to government agencies as evidence of their education and have been recognized as service dog trainers or assessors in countries where such credentials are acknowledged. Additionally, some have used their SDC credential to gain employment and support their work in Assistance Dogs International (ADI) member programs.
It’s important to understand that government recognition of service dog trainers varies widely by country and is rapidly changing. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that any specific agency or governing body will recognize the SDC credential. This uncertainty applies to all service dog industry credentials at this time.