What are the biggest myths about service dogs? How do we expand access for those truly in need? Join host Dr. Gershon Alaluf and guests Jennifer Kolar (CEO & Founder of Atlas Assistance Dogs) and Molly Neher (COO of Atlas Assistance Dogs) for an inspiring episode of Irreplaceable Truths that explores the human-canine bond, service dog ethics, and how thoughtful training transforms lives. From the emotional challenges of retirement to confronting public misconceptions, this episode highlights what it truly means to empower both the dog and the handler.

What you’ll discover:

• Why ethical, positive reinforcement matters in service dog training
• What veterinarians need to know about service dog physical and mental health
• How invisible disabilities and public stigma impact handlers
• What retirement really looks like for a service dog
• How Atlas Assistance Dogs is redefining access and affordability
• What veterinarians can do to better support working dogs and their people

Who will love this episode:

• Veterinarians & veterinary students
• Animal care professionals
• Service dog trainers and handlers
• Disability rights advocates
• Dog lovers and behavioral science enthusiasts
• Professionals interested in animal-assisted interventions

Stay Connected:

• Like this video if you found value in this discussion!
• Drop your questions or share your veterinary stories in the comments.
• Subscribe & hit the bell icon to never miss an episode.
• Empowering truth, one story at a time.

Resources Mentioned:

• atlasdog.org – Learn more about Atlas Assistance Dogs
• info@atlasdog.org – Contact Atlas
• Phone: 503-893-8080

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios

Contact: info@pacificlensstudios.com

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Atlas Assistance Dogs and guest backgrounds

03:43 – Mission, vision, and ethical training philosophy

06:35 – Barriers to service dog access: cost, training, and health

10:48 – Molly’s story: seizures, Reed, and becoming an advocate

17:04 – Retiring a service dog: signs, transition, and emotional toll

22:03 – “Thriving with” vs. “despite” disability: language and empowerment

25:00 – Common misconceptions about service dogs and public access

32:00 – Stigma, anxiety, and the pressure of handler perfection

36:44 – Behavioral signs of stress in working dogs

40:02 – Veterinarian collaboration and understanding working dog needs

44:35 – Why Atlas uses only ethical, positive training methods

49:47 – Molly’s new puppy: raising a second service dog

53:04 – Technology, volunteer models, and future innovation

55:16 – What Atlas hopes its legacy will be in the industry

Ep. 30

#servicedogs #ethicaldogtraining #disabilityadvocacy