History

Dog A.I.D. is based on the successful American organisation called Top Dog. The original idea of the scheme was to help people with physical disabilities train their own pet dogs.

Internationally acclaimed behaviourist, John Rogerson, together with co-founder, Dolores Palmer, are responsible for adapting this idea for the needs of people with physical disabilities in the UK.

1992 - A pilot scheme was set up in the Midlands and so Dog A.I.D. was born.

1994 - The first two teams were qualified to Assistance Level.

1996 - Dog A.I.D. is officially launched at Crufts.

2003 - Dog A.I.D. became an officially registered charity.

2007 - Dog A.I.D. joined the umbrella group, Assistance Dogs UK, as provisional members. 

2009 - Full membership of Assistance Dogs UK was awarded.

Now we give demonstrations of the work we do at many shows around the country, including the dog event of the year; Crufts. Our demonstrations allow you to see some of the things dogs can be trained to do to become vital assistants to people with a variety of disabilities.