Empowering independence through assistance dog training

Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC is a dedicated highly commended non-profit organisation in the United Kingdom. We train and support life-changing assistance dog partnerships, helping individuals gain greater autonomy, confidence, and daily support.

How we support our community

Discover our core services, structured training pathways, and how you can join our supportive network.

Training programmes

Learn about our tailored training pathways designed to guide handler and dog teams through every milestone to success.

Membership information

Find out how to join our non-profit organisation, view our transparent pricing, and access dedicated member resources.

Meet our team

Get to know the passionate directors, trainers, admin staff, and volunteers behind Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC.

Ways to support us

Help us transform more lives through direct donations, Easyfundraising, or by exploring exciting job opportunities with us.

Dedicated to ethical, non-profit assistance dog support

As a community interest company based in the United Kingdom, Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC is committed to education, advocacy, and accessible training. We bring together expert trainers, caring staff, and an inclusive community to help handler teams thrive at every stage of their journey.

Resources for handlers and the public

We provide vital guidance for current and prospective assistance dog owners across the UK. Explore useful links, dedicated member training videos, and a curated directory of UK dog insurance providers that accept recognised assistance dogs.

Aduk Guide To Assistance Dogs In The Workplace Docx

Word – 1.6 MB 64 downloads

Assistance Dogs A Guide For All Businesses Pdf

PDF – 9.9 MB 71 downloads

Upcoming events and appearances

We pride ourselves on our adaptability and commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service. Explore what we have to offer and how we can contribute to your success.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions about assistance dogs, our training programmes, membership, and how you can support Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC.

Do Assistance Dogs need be Neutered /Spayed before there PAT?

We strongly recommend that your pup is spayed or neutered before taking their PAT. This advice aligns with our commitment to effective training and minimizing behavioral and hormonal distractions during the process.

While their is no legal requirement for your pup to be neutered or spayed for PA/AD work, we have observed significant benefits in training when distractions are reduced. As we work towards ADI accreditation, please note that while your dog can pass the PAT without being spayed or neutered, they will not be eligible to display the ADI logo on their vest unless they have undergone this procedure.

Do I need ID for my Assistance Dog?

 

Legally, the answer is no. 

As an organization, we offer these to our members as a way to demonstrate their affiliation with Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC. However, they do not hold any legal standing, as identification is not required for assistance dogs in the UK and should not be requested by businesses. 

 

Does GKAD CIC allow aversive tools in there program?

Short answer: No — Good Karma Assistance Dogs CIC does NOT allow aversive or force-based tools in their assistance dog programme.

 

🚫 NOT Permitted in the Programme

These are never allowed — they cause pain, force, fear, or physical correction:

• Slip leads (as a training/handling tool in AD work)

• Choke chains / check chains

• Prong / pinch collars

• E-collars / remote / shock collars (any type)

• Head halters / head harnesses

• Any other device or method that applies force, pain, or aversive pressure to the dog

 

✅ Approved & Recommended Equipment

• Properly fitted harnesses 

• Flat collar

• Flat lead / standard leash

 

⚠️ Exception — Slip Leads

Slip leads may be considered only for non-assistance-dog activities (e.g., working sports), and only on a strict case-by-case basis. This does not apply to assistance dog tasks, training, or public-access work.

Join us or support our mission today

Whether you are seeking assistance dog training, wish to join our passionate team, or want to support us through donations and fundraising, we would love to hear from you.