Bergin University of Canine Studies

Opened in 1991 by Dr. Bonnie Bergin, the originator of the service dog concept, Bergin University of Canine Studies is the world’s only University accredited (Accredited Member, ACICS) to provide Associate, Bachelor and Masters degrees in canine studies while placing high-quality assistance dogs trained through only positive methods. As the world becomes more aware and accepting of the benefits of the human-canine partnership, we continue to adapt and grow our educational and community programming. Since the founding of the University, over 460 students have earned their degrees or participated in our summer seminar, and staff has placed over 220 assistance dogs with people with mobility challenges and veterans with combat-related injuries. In keeping with Dr. Bergin’s original mission, the University provides assistance dogs to people with physical disabilities at a low cost and to disabled veterans free of charge.