What is the Canadian Assistance Dog Institute?

CADI is an independent organization that evaluates and certifies assistance dogs in Canada. CADI reviews provincial training compliance and provides certification recognized across Canadian provinces. CADI partners with TheraPetic Canada for clinical documentation services.

What are the provincial requirements for assistance dogs in Canada?

Each Canadian province has different requirements. Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec each maintain separate standards. CADI evaluates teams against the applicable provincial standards.

Who reviews Canadian training submissions?

Karen Robertson, MS, CPDT-KSA #58327 — the Canadian Training Reviewer for TheraPetic Healthcare Provider Group. Karen holds a Master's degree and is certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

How do I verify a CADI certification?

Verify at verify.assistancedoginstitute.ca using the verification code on the document. Contact krobertson@assistancedoginstitute.ca or 514-312-6751 for questions.

Is CADI the same as TheraPetic Canada?

No. CADI and TheraPetic Canada are two separate organizations. TheraPetic Canada provides clinical documentation. CADI provides training evaluation and certification. Together they offer a complete pathway for Canadian handlers.

Do I need CADI certification for my assistance dog?

Requirements vary by province. Some require specific certifications for public access. CADI certification provides additional credibility for handlers seeking the highest recognition standard.

Is CADI available in French?

Yes. CADI services and evaluations are available in English and French across all Canadian provinces including Quebec.

What training standards does CADI use?

CADI evaluates against provincial standards, international best practices from Assistance Dogs International, and task-specific competency assessments covering obedience, public access readiness, task performance, and handler-dog team coordination.

Blog % - Canadian Assistance Dog Institute

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How to Travel with a Service Animal

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Canadian assistance dog training resources