Minister of Community and Social Services Jason Luan during the June 24, 2022 news conference. (Government of Alberta)

By Justin Goulet

Alberta

Alberta government invests $300,000 to improves access to service dogs

Jun 24, 2022 | 4:29 PM

EDMONTON, AB – The provincial government is investing $300,000 to improve access to service dogs for Albertans. The funding will go towards organizations that raise, train, test and place service dogs.

Service dogs help reduce stress levels and have the ability to perform specific tasks to enable people to access their community, maintain employment and manage mental health conditions. In all, the funding will support nine Alberta-based businesses.

Minister of Community and Social Services Jason Luan said, “Alberta’s government knows how important service dogs are to help people with disabilities live more independent and fulfilled lives.”

“They help remove barriers, which allows them to participate in their communities through employment and other opportunities.”

In addition, the province has announced that three organizations have been approved to qualify service dogs. They are Meliora Service Dogs, TLC Training and Consulting, and Holdfast K9.

These organizations were assessed to ensure they meet Alberta’s training standards and can provide dogs that meet the unique needs of those who require their support.

Below is a list of the organizations receiving funding from the province:

• Aspen Service Dogs
• Canadian Canine Training Corporation
• Courageous Companions Inc.
• Meliora Service Dogs
• Red Dog Training Solutions
• TLC Training and Consulting
• BC & Alberta Guide Dogs
• Dogs With Wings
• Pacific Assistance Dogs Society

More details about service dogs are available at the Government of Alberta website.