About Us

At Saint Louis Huggs, we are not just service dog trainers; we are dream enablers. Our mission is deeply rooted in empowering dog owners with disabilities to weave a bond of understanding and capability with their canine companions. Through the artistry of positive reinforcement techniques, we aim to sculpt companion dogs into skilled service animals. But our journey does not stop there—we aspire to elevate the lives of individuals with disabilities by placing these highly trained service dogs by their side. Simultaneously, we champion the cause of responsible dog ownership and training, striving to shift the public narrative towards appreciation and understanding.

Goals and Objectives

Our organizational trajectory is defined by a meticulous set of goals and objectives, each crafted with the precision and commitment expected of a professional institution:

• Affordable and Comprehensive Training:
  • Deliver an accessible and comprehensive service dog training program within the Saint Louis Metro Area.
  • Ground our approach in positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring both affordability and effectiveness for dog owners seeking to enhance their companions' capabilities.
• Support and Resources:
  • Extend unwavering support and resources to individuals who stand to benefit from the transformative assistance of a service dog.
  • Maintain a robust infrastructure to provide guidance and aid throughout the entire process, acknowledging the profound impact a well-trained service dog can have on an individual's quality of life.
• Advocacy for Responsible Ownership:
  • Champion responsible pet ownership as a fundamental tenet of our mission.
  • Advocate for the widespread adoption of reward-based training methods, positioning them as the cornerstone of responsible dog parenting and fostering a community dedicated to the ethical treatment and training of canine companions.
• Owner-Trained Service Dogs:
  • Facilitate and support the nuanced development and refinement of owner-trained service dogs.
  • Recognize and celebrate the unique bond and unwavering dedication that owners invest in this intricate process, fostering a sense of empowerment and accomplishment.
• Public Education:
  • Lead a concerted effort to raise awareness among the public and businesses regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Educate stakeholders about the indispensable role that service dogs play in enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation for the profound impact these skilled companions have on their handlers.

These goals and objectives collectively form the bedrock of our professional commitment at StL Huggs, reflecting our dedication to excellence, inclusivity, and the holistic betterment of both dogs and their human counterparts.

Founded in 2008 by the visionary Elizabeth Johnson in the heart of Saint Louis, MO, Saint Louis Huggs began its journey as a community organization with a singular focus on providing unparalleled service dog training to individuals with disabilities. In 2010, it found a nurturing home under the wings of Furry Inc, a 501c3 not-for-profit organization.

The narrative unfolded further in 2016 as Saint Louis Huggs expanded its canvas, introducing educational sessions for grade school-aged after-school programs. By 2018, the spectrum widened to encompass employee training, public education forums, and specialized training tailored for organizations and businesses.

In 2022, Furry Inc underwent a metamorphosis, emerging as the redefined Saint Louis Huggs—a new 501c3 not-for-profit corporation. Amidst these changes, the organization's ethos remained steadfast: to provide high-quality service dog training and be a beacon of support for those navigating life with disabilities.

As part of our commitment to innovation, Saint Louis Huggs is on the verge of a groundbreaking transition into a paperless, all-digital program. Soon, our members will seamlessly track their training progress through the Member Portal on our website, marking a new chapter in our evolution.