Assistance Service Dog Educational Center

ASDEC trains service dogs from puppyhood through certification using a structured, long-term program integrated with high school students as trainers. Dogs are raised and socialized by volunteer puppy raisers, then undergo advanced task training at the facility. Clients are matched with dogs based on need, and training includes ongoing support after placement. The program runs year-round with volunteer hours on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Pricing Summary

Service dog costs are assessed based on required task training and breed; clients must contact ASDEC directly for pricing and availability. No public pricing listed.

Policies

Volunteers must schedule appointments for Tuesday and Saturday hours. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated for clients. Training for personal pets is not offered due to liability concerns with the student program.

Assistance Service Dog Educational Center (ASDEC) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2002 in Woodlake, CA, that trains service dogs for individuals with mental, medical, or physical disabilities, including seizure response, diabetic alert, hearing alert, mobility assistance, autism support, and PTSD service dogs. ASDEC partners with the Woodlake Unified School District to provide students with hands-on training experience, helping at-risk youth stay in school while preparing service dogs for clients. The organization primarily trains Golden Retrievers and a few Goldendoodles from certified breeders, focusing on temperament and health. Volunteers and puppy raisers play a key role in early socialization, and ASDEC offers community events, school presentations, and educational workshops. They also provide pet boarding services and accept donations to support their mission.

ASDEC does not train personal pets for service work due to liability concerns with their student program, but they can refer clients to local trainers. Their training is conducted at their facility in Woodlake, and they emphasize long-term client support, including follow-up check-ins and training guidance even years after placement.

The organization is led by Katie Baker-Parker, Head Facilitator and Lead Trainer, who has been involved with ASDEC for over 19 years, starting as a student in the program. Gerald Whittaker, co-founder and Veteran Liaison, and other board members bring decades of experience in education and service dog training.

ASDEC’s unique advantage lies in its dual mission: empowering youth through dog training while providing high-quality, life-changing service dogs to those in need. Their clients receive ongoing support, and many volunteers and graduates continue to contribute to the program as adults.

Accomplishments

ASDEC has placed over 300 service dogs since its founding in 2002. Head facilitator Katie Baker-Parker has been involved for over 19 years, starting as a student and now leading the program. The organization maintains strong community ties with the Woodlake Unified School District and local businesses.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact ASDEC directly to inquire about service dog availability and application. Puppy raisers and volunteers must complete and submit an application form available on their website. Clients are not able to train their own pets through the program.