About Canadian Assistance Dog Institute
Dedicated to providing professional, individualized service dog training that meets ATPDR requirements and empowers Canadians with disabilities to live more independent lives.
Our Mission
Canadian Assistance Dog Institute (CADI) was founded on a simple but powerful principle: every person with a disability deserves access to professional-quality service dog training.
We provide direct, individualized training where certified professionals work one-on-one with each handler and dog team. This approach ensures your service dog is properly trained to perform specific tasks that assist with your disability-related needs.
Unlike certification-only services, CADI trainers are directly involved throughout the entire training process—from initial assessment through graduation and beyond. Our programs are designed to meet the rigorous requirements of the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (ATPDR), ensuring your documentation is accepted by Canadian airlines.
Our Core Values
Professional Excellence
Our trainers hold the highest certifications in the industry, including CPDT-KSA and advanced degrees from Bergin University.
Individual Focus
Every training program is tailored to the specific needs of the handler and the tasks required to assist with their disability.
Verifiable Credentials
All trainer credentials can be independently verified through CCPDT and other recognized certifying bodies.
Our Journey
CPDT Certification
Karen Robertson earns her professional dog trainer certification, beginning her journey in service dog training.
Bergin University
Completion of Master of Science degree in Human-Canine Life Sciences from the world’s premier assistance dog training institution.
CADI Founded
Canadian Assistance Dog Institute established to provide professional service dog training for Canadians with disabilities.
ATPDR Compliance
Programs updated to meet new ATPDR requirements for Canadian air travel, ensuring all documentation is airline-compliant.
150+ Teams Trained
Milestone reached: over 150 handler-dog teams successfully trained and certified through our programs.
ATPDR-Compliant Training
The Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (ATPDR) set specific requirements for service dogs traveling on Canadian airlines. CADI’s training programs are designed from the ground up to meet these requirements.
Meet Our Founder
Karen Robertson, M.S., CPDT-KSA
Lead Trainer & Founder
Karen brings over two decades of professional service dog training experience to CADI. Her Master of Science from Bergin University of Canine Studies—the world’s premier institution for assistance dog education—combined with her CPDT-KSA certification represents the highest standard in the profession.
Having trained over 150 service dog teams, Karen specializes in psychiatric service dogs, mobility assistance, and medical alert training. Her science-based, positive reinforcement approach ensures both dog and handler are prepared for success.
View Full CredentialsReady to Start Your Journey?
Contact us today to discuss your needs and learn how CADI’s professional training programs can help you gain independence with a properly trained service dog.
We are proud to be an Accredited Member of the Service Dog Network community since 2016!