Bergin University, home of he Assistance Dog Institute is located in stunningly beautiful and diverse Sonoma County amid geysers, redwoods, ocean beaches and wine country. Its close proximity to San Francisco, a mere 50 minute drive south, adds the availability of big city cultural experiences. Situated in what might be called “assistance dog row,” the SFSPCA’s Hearing Dog Program, Guide Dogs and Canine Companions for Independence are easily accessed and tours are arranged as part of the college coursework.

The University’s 7500 square foot facility is comprised of two side-by-side two-story buildings that include a lecture hall, training room, library, a fully equipped veterinary clinic, staff offices, puppy petting lounges and dormitories. The facility is located within walking distance to small shopping centers and restaurants.

A second facility located on the grounds of Sonoma County’s Juvenile Detention Center is utilized in a combined effort of Bergin University and the Sierra Youth Center to help rehabilitate at-risk teens. Here teens are taught to train service dogs. Known as the High Schooled Assistance-Dog (HS A-Dog) program, this program has drawn worldwide acclaim.

Tours of Campus

The University welcomes visitors! To schedule a visit to our Santa Rosa Campus, please call 707.545.3647 and ask for Jorjan or Cheryl. Tours are every Thursday at 2pm. We are happy to show you around our training facility. You can look in on classes in session, see videos that have been done on our work, meet the staff, and pet some dogs! (Please do not bring your own dog with you, unless it’s a service dog).