ATLANTA, GA – Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) is excited to announce the expansion of its From Shelter to Service Dog program through a new partnership with the Atlanta Humane Society. This initiative will transform the lives of shelter dogs and people by identifying and training select dogs to become Service Dogs for individuals in need.
The From Shelter to Service Dog program launched in 2023 with Operation Kindness in Carrollton, TX, where it has already resulted in multiple successful Service Dog placements. This expansion to Atlanta Humane will enable DBL to increase the number of shelter dogs trained and placed nationwide.
“Through this partnership with the Atlanta Humane Society, we are able to extend our mission of transforming rescue dogs into life-changing Service Dogs,” said Bryan Williams, CEO of Dogs for Better Lives. “The demand for our Service Dogs is higher than ever, and this collaboration allows us to train and place more dogs, ultimately helping more people with disabilities.”
The program selects dogs from Atlanta Humane that demonstrate the temperament and abilities necessary for Service Dog work. These dogs will live with foster volunteers while undergoing professional training with DBL trainers to prepare them for their future roles. Even dogs that do not graduate as Service Dogs will benefit from the additional training, increasing their chances of adoption into loving homes.
“At the Atlanta Humane Society, we are always looking for innovative ways to give our animals the best possible futures,” said Cal Morgan, President and CEO of Atlanta Humane. “Partnering with Dogs for Better Lives means that more of our shelter dogs will have a second chance—not only at finding homes but at making a life-changing impact on someone in need.”
Shelter Dog Program Coordinators Melissa and Jessica pose with Certified Hearing Dog Hazel. Hazel was trained through the From Shelter to Service Dog Program partnership with Operation Kindness in Texas and was recently placed with a client. Melissa will be heading up the program in Atlanta.
Dogs for Better Lives has trained and placed Service Dogs since its founding in 1977, but finding suitable shelter dogs for training near its Oregon headquarters has become increasingly challenging. By expanding to new regions with strong shelter networks like Atlanta Humane, DBL can continue its mission and meet the growing need for Assistance Dogs across the country.
The program will be based at Atlanta Humane’s new Marietta location, which offers a unique advantage— a private and cozy on-site house. This homey setting allows the dogs in training to practice their skills in a typical home environment. This program expansion will help reduce the waiting list for Service Dogs and bring the benefits of shelter dog adoption to a broader audience. Individuals interested in supporting the program or becoming a foster volunteer can learn more at dogsforbetterlives.org/shelter.
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About Dogs for Better Lives
Dogs for Better Lives is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focusing on the professional training and placement of Hearing Assistance Dogs, Autism Assistance Dogs, and Facility Dogs and is accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) and recognized by Charity Navigator as a top 4-star nonprofit. Dogs for Better Lives has trained and placed more than 1,600 dogs with people in need since 1977. Assistance Dogs are placed at zero cost to the client, thanks to donor support. Learn more at dogsforbetterlives.org
About the Atlanta Humane Society
The Atlanta Humane Society is a no-kill animal shelter providing free pet parent resources, animal cruelty rescue and disaster relief, pet adoption, affordable veterinary care, and more to communities throughout the Southeast. As Atlanta’s oldest non-religious nonprofit, they have been caring for the Atlanta community and its animals for more than 150 years. For more information, please visit atlantahumane.org.
Media Contacts
Sara Ifert, Vice President of Marketing
Dogs for Better Lives
774-255-3518
sara@dogsforbetterlives.org
Christina Hill, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Atlanta Humane Society
248-786-7821
chill@atlantahumane.org
