Life with Service Dogs” is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at USask) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA).
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Episode 18: Reflecting on service dog research (Finale Episode) - Drs. Colleen Dell, Darlene Chalmers, and Linzi Williamson (Researchers).
Épisode 18
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 01:16:57
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Dr. Colleen Dell is a distinguished scholar and Professor in Sociology and Centennial Enhancement Chair in One Health and Wellness at the University of Saskatchewan. She is also a public sociologist and critical interdisciplinary researcher with a transdisciplinary research program, renowned for her extensive research and advocacy in Indigenous health, addiction, and community wellness. Her research program is grounded in an empowering, community-based and patient-oriented participatory approach, with both human and non-human animals. Her human research centres on healing from addictions and mental health. In this work she has addressed innovative areas in problematic substance use, ranging from horse assisted therapy for youth in addictions treatment to knowledge translation efforts addressing the role of therapy dogs in hospital emergency departments, prisons, and hospice. Dr. Dell has personally trained three full-service dogs with Audeamus Service Dogs, working closely alongside veterans and first responders to gain firsthand insight into the profound connection and rigorous training required for service dogs to effectively enhance the quality of life for individuals living with traumatic brain injuries and PTSD, and potential substance use challenges. This practical experience enriches Dr. Dell’s research and expertise, elevating her credibility and deepening her understanding of the unique needs and therapeutic benefits that service dogs provide to this population. Her hands-on involvement ensures that her academic work is grounded in real-world application, making her contributions invaluable to advancing veteran and first responder care.
Submitted Guest Bio: Dr. Darlene Chalmers is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Regina. She holds certificates in Facilitated Equine Experiential Learning/Psychotherapy for Mental Health Professionals and in Pet Loss and Grief, and has served as a Saint John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program handler since 2014. Since 2008, Dr. Chalmers’ research has focused on human–animal interaction and its relevance to mental health, addiction, and substance use programming. Her work includes research on military veteran health, particularly the role of psychiatric service dogs. Her research and community engagement extend to the role of therapy dogs in provincial and federal correctional institutions and addiction treatment centres, where she has co-developed and co-delivered community-based programming. As a Therapy Dog Program handler and member of the provincial Emergency Response Unit, Dr. Chalmers has supported communities during evacuations, disasters, and public health crises. She regularly brings her therapy dogs into other community settings, including university student visits, deepening understanding of the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment in promoting health and wellbeing. Dr. Chalmers has also personally trained two full-service dogs with Audeamus Service Dogs, working alongside veterans and first responders. This hands-on experience has given her invaluable insight into the profound bond and specialized training required for service dogs to support individuals living with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), operational stress injuries (OSI), PTSD, and substance use challenges. These practical experiences enrich her academic research and highlight the unique therapeutic role service dogs play in enhancing the mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing of veterans and first responders.
Submitted Guest Bio: Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD) is an applied social psychologist and anthrozoologist who specializes in studying animal assisted services (e.g., service dogs, therapy dogs). She is an Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies and, alongside Drs. Colleen Dell and Darlene Chalmers, Co-Director of the Pawsitive Connections Lab at the University of Saskatchewan. She is a Credentialed Evaluator (CE) with the Canadian Evaluation Society (CES) and Social Return on Investment Level 1 Practitioner with Social Value International (SVI). Her research program, currently funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), centers community-based and patient-oriented research approaches alongside humans and non-human animals.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Linzi, who is normally the host, is on the other side of the mic this time as a guest, and is being interviewed by her podcast producer, Grace. Linzi begins by explaining how she got to where she is today with respect to conducting research alongside veterans and service dogs. Colleen then explains how she and Darlene began conducting community-based and patient-oriented research related to veterans and service dogs. Darlene further adds to this history reflecting on the original intentions of the research and where the team actually ended up. They then share what they believe is one of the most impactful findings from their team's research to date. They reflect on their experiences participating in service dog training alongside veterans, as well as working with therapy dogs in various community settings, and what this has taught them about dogs, veterans, the human-animal bond, and patient-oriented research. Linzi then provides a definition of patient-oriented research. Darlene and Colleen add their own reflections and experiences with community-based and patient-oriented research, including efforts to involve the perspective of dogs. They then share what's next with respect to their research on service dogs and human-animal connections more broadly. They discuss a research grant that they applied for, and not long after the interview was recorded, they actually were awarded it. So, you'll hear them talking about what their hopes are with respect to co-developing a research network focused on human-animal connections. Linzi then share what she hopes to see happen with Canada's service dog industry in the future, and Colleen emphasizes the need to also ensure the perspective of the dogs are captured and prioritized in all research and practice.
Williamson, L., Squair, C., Rath, G., Khalid, A., and Kamal, M. (2025). An Environmental Scan of Service Dog Organizations, Policy, and Legislation in Canada. Available at: https://tinyurl.com/sdscan2025
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Episode 17: Service dog retirement and loss (Part 2) - REV. DR. "Sandy" Scott and Rae-Ann Morgan (Veteran/Service Dog Handler; Spouse).
Épisode 17
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 25:42
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Rae-Ann was born and raised in Saskatoon. She attended Rivier Academy in Prince Albert before completing High School. She attended Kelsey Institute, the University of Regina and received a diploma in Human Relations from McMaster University. She spent most of her career working in Calgary in HR for major companies like West Jet, Trans-Canada Pipelines, and the Co-op, among others. Meanwhile, at the same time she was raising three young men and keeping up a household. In 2014 she married Sandy Scott who at the time was working in the Canadian Army as a Chaplain. Her experience raising and training dogs gave her insight into the power of the animal human bond. After Sandy was diagnosed with severe chronic PTSD, his psychotherapist recommended he would benefit from having a service dog she worked tirelessly to find a solution. Rae-Ann made the connection between Sandy, the Canadian Service Dog Unit (CVSDU.ca) and Mandy, his first service dog. Rae-Ann has worked hard to support Sandy in his recovery and has celebrated his bond and work with Mandy and his second service dog Sophie. All the while she has supported Sandy she has worked through her own challenges such as PTSD and breast cancer. Rae-Ann is a visual artist and enjoys living on a beautiful acreage in the Ottawa valley.
Submitted Guest Bio for REV. DR. RMA “Sandy” Scott MSM CD: Sandy grew up in Saskatoon and Edmonton. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a BA, and attended Vancouver School of Theology receiving a Master of Divinity Degree and a Doctor of Ministry Degree. Sandy is an ordained minister if the Presbyterian Church of Canada and has served churches in Ottawa and the valley, and in Prince Albert, SK. Sandy joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1979 as a reservist and was medically released in November 2018 after being diagnosed with PTSD and other physical injuries. He spent most of his career serving as a Reserve Force Chaplain to Army units especially the North Saskatchewan Regiment but also served with Regular Force Units such as 1 PPCLI at the BC Fires, 2 RCHA in Petawawa, 1 Svc Battalion, and Deputy Chaplain 3rd Canadian Division. Sandy deployed to Afghanistan on TFA 3-09 as chaplain to the Operational and Mentor Liaison Team and the Military Police Company in September 2009. After his deployment he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. Since he was diagnosed with PTSD in 2016, he has been working with his wife Rae-Ann to find stability, healing and hope and service dogs have helped to make that possible. Mandy, his first service dog, changed his life and supported him through treatment for his PTSD. Sophie, who he trained, is his second service dog and is a real blessing. Sandy, Rae-Ann and Sophie live on an acreage in the Ottawa Valley.
Episode 8: Integrating a service dog into your home (Part 2) - REV. DR. "Sandy" Scott and Rae-Ann Morgan (Veteran/Service Dog Handler; Spouse).
Épisode 8
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 29:12
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Rae-Ann was born and raised in Saskatoon. She attended Rivier Academy in Prince Albert before completing High School. She attended Kelsey Institute, the University of Regina and received a diploma in Human Relations from McMaster University. She spent most of her career working in Calgary in HR for major companies like West Jet, Trans-Canada Pipelines, and the Co-op, among others. Meanwhile, at the same time she was raising three young men and keeping up a household. In 2014 she married Sandy Scott who at the time was working in the Canadian Army as a Chaplain. Her experience raising and training dogs gave her insight into the power of the animal human bond. After Sandy was diagnosed with severe chronic PTSD, his psychotherapist recommended he would benefit from having a service dog she worked tirelessly to find a solution. Rae-Ann made the connection between Sandy, the Canadian Service Dog Unit (CVSDU.ca) and Mandy, his first service dog. Rae-Ann has worked hard to support Sandy in his recovery and has celebrated his bond and work with Mandy and his second service dog Sophie. All the while she has supported Sandy she has worked through her own challenges such as PTSD and breast cancer. Rae-Ann is a visual artist and enjoys living on a beautiful acreage in the Ottawa valley.
Submitted Guest Bio for REV. DR. RMA “Sandy” Scott MSM CD: Sandy grew up in Saskatoon and Edmonton. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a BA, and attended Vancouver School of Theology receiving a Master of Divinity Degree and a Doctor of Ministry Degree. Sandy is an ordained minister if the Presbyterian Church of Canada and has served churches in Ottawa and the valley, and in Prince Albert, SK. Sandy joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1979 as a reservist and was medically released in November 2018 after being diagnosed with PTSD and other physical injuries. He spent most of his career serving as a Reserve Force Chaplain to Army units especially the North Saskatchewan Regiment but also served with Regular Force Units such as 1 PPCLI at the BC Fires, 2 RCHA in Petawawa, 1 Svc Battalion, and Deputy Chaplain 3rd Canadian Division. Sandy deployed to Afghanistan on TFA 3-09 as chaplain to the Operational and Mentor Liaison Team and the Military Police Company in September 2009. After his deployment he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. Since he was diagnosed with PTSD in 2016, he has been working with his wife Rae-Anne to find stability, healing and hope and service dogs have helped to make that possible. Mandy, his first service dog, changed his life and supported him through treatment for his PTSD. Sophie, who he trained, is his second service dog and is a real blessing. Sandy, Rae-Anne and Sophie live on an acreage in the Ottawa Valley.
Episode 7: Integrating a service dog into your home (Part 1) - Dr. Leanne Nieforth (Researcher)
Épisode 7
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 44:33
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Leanne Nieforth is an Assistant Professor of Human-Animal Interaction at the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University. With a PhD in Human-Animal Interaction, a Master of Science in Communication, and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, she has a unique interdisciplinary approach to study human-animal interactions. Her rigorous research portfolio includes both quantitative and qualitative exploration, incorporating both theoretical and empirical analyses. She has applied these analyses to multiple populations of individuals and multiple species of animals. To date she has 29 peer-reviewed publications with additional publications under review at high impact journals. She has also written five book chapters and multiple extension publications focused on the human-animal bond. She is dedicated to researching evidence-based approaches for developing safe and effective interventions and experiences that foster mutually beneficial partnerships between humans and animals.
Episode 6: What's it like training a service dog? (Part 2) - Dwayne Sawyer (Veteran, Service Dog Handler, & Service Dog Personnel)
Épisode 6
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 41:02
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Dwayne Sawyer is the current President of the Canadian Veteran Service Dog Unit (CVSDU). A retired Sergeant with over 22 years of distinguished service in the Canadian Armed Forces. Originally from Chatham, Ontario, Dwayne’s military journey began in May 1989 and his postings included Calgary, Edmonton, and Ottawa, with assignments that took him around the globe. Dwayne’s career included deployments to Kuwait, Bosnia, and two tours in Afghanistan.
Dwayne was diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in 2008 and was released from the Armed forces in 2011. In 2015, he received his first Service Dog from the CVSDU—a pivotal moment that restored his sense of purpose and profoundly impacted his recovery. Today, Dwayne is a passionate advocate for the life-changing benefits of Service Dogs for Veterans and First Responders. As a guest speaker, he shares his story to inspire hope and demonstrate that, with dedication and support, it is possible to lead a productive and meaningful life after service.
Dwayne remains committed to empowering others, emphasizing that while complete healing may not be possible, veterans and first responders can find renewed purpose and continue to give back to their communities.
“When I came back from Afghanistan there was very few organizations to help soldiers. My son now serves in the Canadian Armed Forces and I want something here for the next generation of soldiers and First Responders that suffer from their injuries.”
Episode 5: What's it like training a service dog? (Part 1) - Bronwyn Edwards (Service Dog Handler & Trainer)
Épisode 5
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 56:30
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Bronwyn Edwards is a service dog handler with lived experience of PTSD. She is grateful to have spent the last 10 years as a civilian in a Veteran-run organization: Audeamus Service Dogs. Today, she has become a trainer, educator and administrator within the program. With a special interest in developing creative and holistic educational tools, she loves learning from those around her, and sharing that knowledge in accessible ways for others to experience. Bronwyn continues this work because of all the Veterans who have shaped her journey, and is currently studying to be an addictions counsellor.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Bronwyn shares her involvement with a Canadian service dog training program, journey with her service dog Leia, and experiences connecting with veterans and first responders working with service dogs. She notes some gaps in service provision across Canada for people who want to acquire and train with service dogs. She provides examples of service dog training struggles for people with disabilities like PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder). Towards the start of our conversation, Bronwyn describes a time when she struggled with thoughts of suicide and thinking her service dog would be better off without her. She describes hers and others' experiences accessing public spaces with a service dog and preparing for it as someone with PTSD. She explains the importance of learning to recognize when a service dog is engaging in their trained tasks rather than misbehaving or being disobedient. She describes her experience becoming a service dog trainer and working with the research team investigating the role of service dogs for veterans with operational stress injuries (OSI). We discuss the current landscape of educational and training models in Canada for people who want to become a service dog trainer. She describes the retirement process with Leah and what it's like training her puppy and service dog prospect Luna. She shares her thoughts on the current service dog environment in Canada, the varying sources of information about service dogs, and some of the risks for handlers and service dogs who access public spaces together. We discuss the topic of stigma related to different disabilities, subtypes of service dogs, and being a veteran or former service member. We end by discussing the importance of humans connecting with nature and non-human animals and the responsibility we have to care for them.
Episode 4: How do you get a service dog? (Part 2) - Christina Chandler (Dog Behaviourist & Trainer).
Épisode 4
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 01:12:12
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Christina Chandler has been a Professional Canine Trainer for more than 20 years and has worked with over twelve thousand dogs in both professional and personal capacities during that time. She has been active in rescue and Animal Protection, as well as in various types of dog sports and training, and completed an internship in the United States at a police and military canine training facility where she focused on training apprehension and detection canines. She is a former Service Dog handler herself, in addition to training Service Dogs for other handlers. In recent years, Christina has shifted her personal focus to the field of Behaviour Modification, and is looking forward to spending more time dedicated to this aspect of her clients' relationships with their pups! To ensure that her experience is matched by her qualifications, Christina successfully obtained a Certification in LIMA/Cynopraxis BehaviourModification practices with Steven Lindsay, and completed a Bachelors Degree in Psychology through the University of Saskatchewan. She currently owns and operates Align Canine Training Inc in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and travels frequently to see clients in surrounding areas.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Christina shares what led to her working with dogs and service dogs, as well as some of her early training experiences, doing dog sports, working with rescue organizations, and training with her first service dog. She outlines some indications that a service dog is an ideal option for a person with a disability, as well as some attributions that can make a dog well suited for a service dog role. She answers a common question: Are there ideal dog breeds for service dog work? She explains her approach to training with dogs, service dogs, and humans. She also highlights the importance of understanding both dog and human psychology. We discuss whether dogs like their jobs, some of the indications that suggest they likely do, signs that a dog doesn't like what they're doing, and the concept of dog enrichment. Christina offers some advice for folks who are considering the various pathways to acquiring a service dog and some factors they should consider. She also reminds folks of the importance of having to be constantly responsive to the welfare and well-being of a service dog. She shares what she hopes to see happen in the future with respect to service dog research, policy, and practice. She also shares some additional advice for prospective service dog handlers, and we discuss the concept of the dog-human bond. Finally, Christina shares her thoughts on resources for learning more about service dogs and what to consider when looking for a service dog provider and trainer.
Episode 3: How do you get a service dog? (Part 1) – Jeff Hinch, Jennifer Hinch, Kat Forder (Veteran/Service Dog Handler, Spouse, Service Dog Personnel).
Épisode 3
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 47:27
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio for Kat Forder, Director, Facility Dogs, Fire Team K9 Service Dogs: Kat broke a five generation family tradition by NOT joining the Canadian Armed Forces. Growing up in a military family helped her understand just how necessary it is to support our Veterans, and their families. After a career in the federal Public Service she pursued a career as a veterinary technician. Kat’s work with Fire Team K9 Service Dogs includes creating a one of a kind Facility Dog Program, unique in Canada, to serve the distinct needs of the diverse, rural, communities of the Ottawa Valley, Ontario.
Submitted Guest Bio for Jennifer Hinch, Director, Service Dogs, Fire Team K9 Service Dogs: After completing a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Guelph, I began building my life in the Ottawa Valley with my husband, Jeff. Over the next 24 years, we raised our family while Jeff proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces. Following my work in the education field and years devoted to raising our family, my path took a meaningful turn toward service dogs—beginning with our own experience. As part of Jeff’s treatment plan, he was paired with a service dog named Judah. Judah had an immediate and profound impact, helping Jeff rediscover purpose and positively transforming our entire family. After his release in 2018, Jeff began working with service dogs, and I witnessed firsthand the powerful effect it had on his mental health and overall well-being. Inspired by this, I joined him in learning to train dogs, with a focus on service work. In 2019, we founded Fire Team K9 to help meet the growing need for service dogs within the veteran and first responder community. Since then, I have continued to expand my knowledge through animal welfare studies, Fear Free certification, and mental health education. Fire Team K9 has grown steadily, now offering service dogs to veterans and first responders, as well as facility dogs that support the broader Community. Through this journey, I have seen the incredible difference a service dog can make in the life of someone recovering from an operational stress injury. It is my mission to continue serving those who have served, and to help bring healing, support, and hope through the work we do.
Episode 2: What is a service dog and who are they ideally for? (Part 2) – Andrew Gough (Veteran/Service Dog Handler)
Épisode 2
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 52:16
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Captain (Retd) Andrew CD has served concurrently for 24 years in both the Canadian Armed Forces and the London Police Service. Andrew’s distinguished career started with the Canadian Armed Forces in October 1999, joining as a Military Police member. He was medically released in May of 2024. He joined the London Police Service as a Cadet in July 2000 and was medically retired in 2023 as a Sergeant. He is medically retired from both professions due to injuries sustained in service. Andrew is an active advocate for veteran and first responder mental health. He was diagnosed with an OSI (Operational Stress Injury), more commonly referred to as PTSD, after returning from a military deployment in Tripoli, Libya, in 2014, where he was injured. It was a difficult journey through the acknowledgement of his injury, diagnosis and subsequent treatment. As he has often said to many just starting out in this field of work, “It is not a matter of if you will face trauma in this job, but when”. How you prepare yourself and your mindset can make all the difference. He was not prepared, as he believed everything was fine. All those ahead of him projected an image of fine. It was his accumulation of trauma in both professions that ultimately broke him, impacting both his life and that of his family. Despite his injuries, the stigma, and the monumental effort to work on his wellness, he used this diagnosis as an opportunity to help others in the first responder sector. You will always see Andrew with his Service Dog Riggs. Since being paired with Andrew in November 2017, Riggs has played an integral role in Andrew’s daily life. He has participated in numerous Canadian Armed Forces activities, from field operations and parades to administrative duties. For nearly four years, Riggs accompanied Andrew daily while seconded at the Ontario Police College. Beyond his professional role, Riggs is a cherished member of the Gough family. Andrew is transparent about mental health. He is open to discussing his challenges and simultaneously provides education and support for others. However, none of this has been easy. Andrew has had to simultaneously navigate the stigma and judgment of having a service animal in a professional setting. The visible presence of Riggs has encouraged others to either ask questions or, perhaps more importantly, share with a trusted peer. Determined to make a difference beyond his own experiences, Andrew founded Veterans and Everyday Heroes (V-EH!) in 2018, a federally recognized not-for-profit organization that delivers wellness initiatives to Veterans and first responders. V-EH! aims to provide acts of kindness and support initiatives for first responders’ mental health. The primary mission is to facilitate the acquisition of life-saving service dogs for veterans and first responders with an OSI. V-EH! has fundraised to pair serving and released members with service dogs throughout Canada, to improve their mental health and well-being. Recently recognized by the Police Association of Ontario (PAO) for sharing his mental health journey, Andrew was awarded the 2024 Police Hero Honour Roll Award, which pays homage to a police officer or civilian police service employee who has made a significant impact over the past decade. Andrew was also awarded the Minister of Veteran Affairs Commendation for his work within the veteran community. In 2022 Andrew received Canada Beyond the Blue’s Community Partner Award. Further, Andrew was awarded the Canadian Mental Health Association's “Champion of Change Award” in 2019. Andrew is also a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Episode 1: What is a service dog and who are they ideally for? (Part 1) - Dr. Sarah Leighton (Researcher)
Épisode 1
mardi 30 juin 2026 • Durée 54:21
Podcast Description: Life with Service Dogs is a Canadian-based, limited series podcast that highlights the everyday challenges and triumphs service dogs and their handlers face. This podcast is informed by a research project titled “Supporting Canadian Veterans working with Service Dogs” led by Dr. Linzi Williamson (PhD, Assistant Professor in Psychology & Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan) and an Advisory Committee consisting of Canadian Veterans and service dog trainers, providers, and researchers. This research is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This podcast is produced by host Dr. Linzi Williamson and Grace Rath (M.A., Service Dog Project Coordinator).
Submitted Guest Bio: Dr. Sarah Leighton is a Research Scientist in the OHAIRE Lab at the University of Arizona and a scholar–practitioner focused on service dog partnerships for people with disabilities. She brings over 15 years of experience across service dog training, client services, and veteran partnerships, including more than a decade with Canine Companions supporting service dog training and placements. Her research bridges science and real-world practice to improve access to high-quality service dog programs. She is the 2024 recipient of the American Psychological Association Award for Distinguished Graduate Student in Professional Psychology.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Sandy and Rae-Ann explain what went into the decision to retire Sandy's first service dog, Mandy. They also explain how Mandy helped them train with their service dog prospect Sophie. They note some considerations when having multiple dogs in the home or working with multiple service dogs at one time as one is transitioning out of the role and the other is transitioning into it. Unfortunately, during the early days of training with Sophie, Mandy died from cancer, something Sandy describes as devastating and the worst loss of his life. Sandy and Rae-Ann explain how they experienced and managed the grief of losing Mandy. We discussed the concept of anticipatory grief related to non-human animals in our lives. Sandy and Rae-Ann share their thoughts on what folks might need in terms of support, resources, or information when faced with potentially losing a service dog, whether through retirement or death.
Related Resources
Bussolari, C., Currin-McCulloch, J., Packman, W., Kogan, L. R., and Erdman, P. (2024). The loss of a service dog through death: experiences of partners. Illn. Crisis Loss 32, 80–94. doi: 10.1177/10541373221113336
Gibson, M., Chalmers, D., and Ru, R. (2022). “My lifeline is gone”: an exploration of the experiences of veterans following the loss of their psychiatric service dog(s). Hum. Anim. Interact. Bull. 11, 54-74. doi: 10.1079/hai.2022.0009
Gray, S., Emmerson, D., Thomson, Z., Veggel, N. van, & Engward, H. (2024). Preparing for Assistance Dog Retirement: What do we currently know about the retirement of assistance dogs? SocArXiv. https://doi.org/10.31219/osf.io/6v9gs
Kogan, L. R., Packman, W., Currin-McCulloch, J., Bussolari, C., and Erdman, P. (2023). The loss of a service dog through death or retirement: experiences and impact on partners. Illn. Crisis Loss 31, 244–270. doi: 10.1177/10541373211054168
Salmon, A. J., Harpur, P., & Pachana, N. A. (2025). Attitudes and arrangements: owner predictions of growing older with an assistance dog. Disability & Society, 40(4), 1127–1131. https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2024.2373762
Salmon AJ, Pachana NA. Cultivating the Acceptance of Assistance Dogs in Aged Care through Deliberative Democracy. Animals (Basel). 2023 Aug 20;13(16):2680. doi: 10.3390/ani13162680.
van Veggel, N., Emmerson, D., Gray, S., Thomson, Z., & Engward, H. (2024). Preparing for Assistance Dog Retirement - Final project summary (p. 16). Chelmsford: Anglia Ruskin University. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.27002770.v1
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Episode Summary: During my conversation with Rae-Anne and Sandy, Sandy describes what led him to working with his first service dog Mandy and how Rae-Anne supported them. Rae-Anne describes the bond she has with Sandy's first and second service dogs. I ask Rae-Anne to explain what it means when she and other spouses describe themselves as their partner's previous or original service dog. Sandy describes what happened the first time he met Mandy, his first service dog, and how she positively changed his life, facilitated his healing, and helped him to not hurt himself. Sandy and Rae-Anne explain how service dogs can impact the whole family beyond directly supporting a veteran. They explain how their day-to-day changed having a service dog in the home, and Rae-Anne describes the activities she was able to re-engage in once she knew Sandy was safe with his service dog. She also explains how she and Sandy were able to reconnect as a couple. Sandy explains how their dogs act as social facilitators when they're out in their community. Rae-Anne provides advice for spouses whose partners might be considering getting a service dog, and she also cautions how some spouses might feel jealous and how to handle those feelings. Throughout, Sandy and Rae-Anne note various things for veterans and their families to consider if they're thinking about getting a service dog.
Related Resources
Bibbo, J., Rodriguez, K. E., and O’Haire, M. E. (2019). Impact of service dogs on family members’ psychosocial functioning. Am. J. Occup. Ther. 73, 1–11. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2019.031690
McCall, C.E., Rodriguez, K.E., Wadsworth, S.M.M., Meis, L.A. and O’Haire, M.E. (2020) “A Part of Our Family"? Effects of psychiatric service dogs on quality of life and relationship functioning in military-connected couples. Military Behavioural Health 8(4), 410–423.
Nieforth, L.O., Abdul Wahab, A.H., Sabbaghi, A., MacDermid Wadsworth, S., Foti, D. and O’Haire, M.E. (2022b) Quantifying the emotional experiences of partners of veterans with PTSD service dogs using ecological momentary assessment. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 48, 101590.
Nieforth, L. O., Craig, E. A., Behmer, V. A., MacDermid Wadsworth, S., and O’Haire, M. E. (2021). PTSD service dogs foster resilience among veterans and military families. Curr. Psychol. 42, 13207–13219. doi: 10.1007/s12144-021-01990-3
Nieforth, L. O., and Leighton, S. C. (2025). “Animal-assisted interventions for military families: a synthesis of the current evidence” in Handbook on animal-assisted therapy: Foundations and guidelines for animal-assisted interventions. eds. A. H. Fine, M. K. Mueller, Z. Y. Ng, T. C. Griffin, and P. Tedeschi. 6th ed (Elsevier, Inc), 437–447.
Nieforth, L.O., Miller, E.A., Wadsworth, S.M. and O’Haire, M.E. (2021) Posttraumatic stress disorder service dogs and the wellbeing of Veteran families. European Journal of Psychotraumatology 13, (1).
Whitworth, J., O’Brien, C., Wharton, T., and Scotland-Coogan, D. (2020). Understanding partner perceptions of a service dog training program for veterans with PTSD: building a bridge to trauma resiliency. Soc. Work. Ment. Health 18, 604–622. doi: 10.1080/15332985.2020.1806181
Williamson, L., Rath, G., Arisman, K., Moss, J., & Dell, C. A. (2024). The effect of service dogs on veterans' romantic partners and relationships: A preliminary mixed-methods study. Human-Animal Interactions. https://doi.org/10.1079/hai.2024.0039
Williamson, L., Rath, G., & Dell, C. (2025). An exploratory investigation of psychosocial effects of service dogs on veterans’ families from the perspective of family members. Frontiers in Psychology, 29. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1574445
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Leanne shares what led her to researching military veterans and service dogs. We discussed the realities of being researchers without military experience or needing a service dog, and the benefits of working with people with lived experience in these cases. Leanne describes the research she and her team have conducted focused on veterans' families and romantic partners, and how service dogs may affect them, and how families and romantic partners can support the veteran service dog partnership. Based on her research findings, she provides suggestions for service dog providers in terms of what would help them support veterans and their loved ones, particularly those who also live with the veteran and their service dog. We discuss challenges and benefits of having service dogs and veterans’ family homes. Leanne describes what it's like getting a service dog in the United States, which turns out to be not so different from acquiring a service dog in Canada. She also offers some suggestions for how to approach the search for a service dog or provider. To end our conversation, she shares the research she'd like to see conducted related to veterans and service dogs and shares her team's future research plans.
Related Resources
Bibbo, J., Rodriguez, K. E., and O’Haire, M. E. (2019). Impact of service dogs on family members’ psychosocial functioning. Am. J. Occup. Ther. 73, 1–11. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2019.031690
McCall, C.E., Rodriguez, K.E., Wadsworth, S.M.M., Meis, L.A. and O’Haire, M.E. (2020) “A Part of Our Family"? Effects of psychiatric service dogs on quality of life and relationship functioning in military-connected couples. Military Behavioural Health 8(4), 410–423.
Nieforth, L.O., Abdul Wahab, A.H., Sabbaghi, A., MacDermid Wadsworth, S., Foti, D. and O’Haire, M.E. (2022b) Quantifying the emotional experiences of partners of veterans with PTSD service dogs using ecological momentary assessment. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 48, 101590.
Nieforth, L. O., Craig, E. A., Behmer, V. A., MacDermid Wadsworth, S., and O’Haire, M. E. (2021). PTSD service dogs foster resilience among veterans and military families. Curr. Psychol. 42, 13207–13219. doi: 10.1007/s12144-021-01990-3
Nieforth, L. O., and Leighton, S. C. (2025). “Animal-assisted interventions for military families: a synthesis of the current evidence” in Handbook on animal-assisted therapy: Foundations and guidelines for animal-assisted interventions. eds. A. H. Fine, M. K. Mueller, Z. Y. Ng, T. C. Griffin, and P. Tedeschi. 6th ed (Elsevier, Inc), 437–447.
Nieforth, L.O., Miller, E.A., Wadsworth, S.M. and O’Haire, M.E. (2021) Posttraumatic stress disorder service dogs and the wellbeing of Veteran families. European Journal of Psychotraumatology 13, (1).
Whitworth, J., O’Brien, C., Wharton, T., and Scotland-Coogan, D. (2020). Understanding partner perceptions of a service dog training program for veterans with PTSD: building a bridge to trauma resiliency. Soc. Work. Ment. Health 18, 604–622. doi: 10.1080/15332985.2020.1806181
Williamson, L., Rath, G., Arisman, K., Moss, J., & Dell, C. A. (2024). The effect of service dogs on veterans' romantic partners and relationships: A preliminary mixed-methods study. Human-Animal Interactions. https://doi.org/10.1079/hai.2024.0039
Williamson, L., Rath, G., & Dell, C. (2025). An exploratory investigation of psychosocial effects of service dogs on veterans’ families from the perspective of family members. Frontiers in Psychology, 29. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1574445
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Dwayne briefly shares the story of his military service, post-service coping behaviours he engaged in, such as substance use, eventually being diagnosed with PTSD, and what led him to working with his first service dog, Rex. He describes the early challenges and eventual benefits of working with Rex, including how Rex helped him engage in other forms of treatment. He explains the Canadian Veteran Service Dog Unit’s, or CVSDUs, approach to working with veterans or former service members and dogs, and we discuss some of the pros and cons of different service dog matching and training approaches. He explains why peer support models are often adopted by programs designed for veterans, and he outlines some of the common struggles faced by veterans with operational stress injuries and possible pathways to hope. We discuss the importance of matching dogs for service dog training and work based on a veteran's needs and lifestyle, and what to consider with respect to a dog's genetics, personality, temperament, training capacity, and needs. Dwayne shares a story of a dog who was obedient and highly preferred by a veteran, but was ultimately not ideal for service dog work. We discuss the importance of recognizing the mental health needs of service dog trainers, and Dwayne shares his insights on the current Canadian service dog and veteran landscape, how it has changed over time, and where he'd like to see it go moving forward. We also discuss what's at stake when taking a trained service dog into public spaces and encountering dogs that are not well prepared for being in public. Finally, Dwayne shares some advice for veterans considering working with the service dog to support them with their disability needs.
Related Resources
Nieforth, L.O., Rodriguez, K.E. and O’Haire, M.E. (2022a) Expectations versus experiences of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) service dogs: An inductive conventional content analysis. Psychological Trauma 3, 347–356.
Whitworth, J., and Stewart, C. (2024). Understanding strategies for matching service dogs to military veterans with PTSD. J. Vet. Stud. 10, 187–198. doi: 10.21061/jvs.v10i1.514
Williamson, L., Dell, C., Chalmers, D., Cruz, M., & De Groot, P. (2021). Strengthening Zooeyia: Understanding the Human-Animal Bond between Veterans Living with Comorbid Substance Use and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and their Service Dogs. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin, 10(2), 20-47. https://doi.org/10.1079/hai.202
Williamson, L., Duncan, R. C., Rath, G., Dixon, A., Chandler, C., & Dell, C. A. (2026). Understanding the Diversity of Consumer Experiences with Navigating Canada’s Service Dog Industry. Social Sciences, 15(6), 365. https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15060365
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Related Resources
Nieforth, L.O., Rodriguez, K.E. and O’Haire, M.E. (2022a) Expectations versus experiences of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) service dogs: An inductive conventional content analysis. Psychological Trauma 3, 347–356.
Whitworth, J., and Stewart, C. (2024). Understanding strategies for matching service dogs to military veterans with PTSD. J. Vet. Stud. 10, 187–198. doi: 10.21061/jvs.v10i1.514
Williamson, L., Dell, C., Chalmers, D., Cruz, M., & De Groot, P. (2021). Strengthening Zooeyia: Understanding the Human-Animal Bond between Veterans Living with Comorbid Substance Use and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and their Service Dogs. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin, 10(2), 20-47. https://doi.org/10.1079/hai.202
Williamson, L., Duncan, R. C., Rath, G., Dixon, A., Chandler, C., & Dell, C. A. (2026). Understanding the Diversity of Consumer Experiences with Navigating Canada’s Service Dog Industry. Social Sciences, 15(6), 365. https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci15060365
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Related Resources
Krause-Parello, C. A., Friedmann, E., Taber, D., Zhu, H., Quintero, A., & Yount, R. (2025). Veterans Training Service Dogs for Other Veterans: An Animal-Assisted Intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Behavioral Sciences, 15(9), 1180. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15091180
LaFollette, M. R., Rodriguez, K. E., Ogata, N., and O’Haire, M. E. (2019). Military veterans and their PTSD service dogs: associations between training methods, PTSD severity, dog behavior, and the human-animal bond. Front. Vet. Sci. 6:23. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00023
Salomons, H., Ferrans, M., Cusato, C., Moore, K., Woods, V., Bray, E., Kennedy, B., Block, T., Douglas, L., Roberts, A., Gruen, M., & Hare, B. (2026). Longitudinal evidence for the emergence of multiple intelligences in assistance dog puppies, Animal Behaviour, 232, 123410. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2025.123410.
Scotland-Coogan, D. (2019). Relationships, socialization and combat veterans: the impact of receiving and training a service dog. Qual. Rep. 24, 1897–1914. doi: 10.46743/2160-3715/2019.3590
Williamson, L., Squair, C., Rath, G., Khalid, A., and Kamal, M. (2025). An Environmental Scan of Service Dog Organizations, Policy, and Legislation in Canada. Available at: https://tinyurl.com/sdscan2025
Yarborough, B. J. H., Stumbo, S. P., Yarborough, M. T., Owen-Smith, A., and Green, C. A. (2018). Benefits and challenges of using service dogs for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Psychiatr. Rehabil. J. 41, 118–124. doi: 10.1037/prj0000294
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Submitted Guest Bio for Jeff Hinch, President Fire Team K9 Service Dogs: I joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1994 and served until 2018, retiring at the rank of Sergeant after 24 years of active duty. My career took me from domestic responses to international deployments: I helped communities recover from the Ice Storm and the Winnipeg floods, joined a humanitarian DART mission to Turkey after the devastating earthquakes, completed a tour in Bosnia, and served three tours in Afghanistan. Those years shaped me in ways I did not anticipate. I learned leadership, discipline, and the importance of teamwork, but I also carried home difficult memories. After returning from Afghanistan, I was diagnosed with PTSD. Multiple treatments helped to varying degrees, but it wasn’t until I was paired with a service dog that I experienced a breakthrough. The dog changed my daily life—providing grounding, safety, and a steady presence in moments that once felt overwhelming. For me, a service dog was the right medicine at the right time. That transformation inspired a second career. I completed the Penn Foster program in Dog Training and further trained with Omega Service Dogs, learning the science and skill behind training animals to support people with physical and mental health needs. In 2019 I founded Fire Team K9, a small organization dedicated to training and placing service dogs with veterans suffering from PTSD and other service-related conditions. Fire Team K9 combines practical training techniques with lived experience—my own service background informs how we match dogs to handlers and prepare teams for real-world challenges. Today I split my time between advocacy, training, and mentoring veterans who are navigating their own recoveries. I speak openly about the realities of military service and mental health because I believe honestyreduces stigma and connects people to help sooner. My work with service dogs continues to be the most meaningful work I’ve done: witnessing a veteran regain confidence, sleep better, or step back into community life reminds me why I served and why I keep serving in this new way. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking with my dog, volunteering at community events, and staying connected with the friends and families who have supported me through every chapter. My journey has been one of challenge and repair, and I carry forward the conviction that with the right support, recovery is possible.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Kat, Jennifer, and Jeff each explain how they got to where they are today with respect to working with service dogs and veterans and how they developed their not-for-profit Fire Team K9 Service Dogs. Jeff discusses his experiences with PTSD and the topic of suicide, specifically being exposed to seven suicides in seven years. Jennifer shares, from the perspective of being Jeff's spouse, what led him to getting his own service dog. Jeff shares his perspective on why service dogs seem to lead to better results for veterans with PTSD than other traditional forms of treatment. He cautions that dogs might not work for everyone, though. At different points, we discuss factors people may want to consider when thinking about whether a service dog is right for them. At different points, the group provides more information about the Fire Team K9 Service Dog program and approach to service provision. Kat explains some key differences between service and facility dogs, and Jeff and Kat explain how Wounded Warriors and the Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Command support veterans and Fire Team K9 broadly and through the program Operation Service Dog. We discuss what folks should consider when deciding which, if any, service dog organization to work with. We also discuss different models for requiring and training a service dog, as well as instances when someone is matched with a dog and they realize at some point that it's not a good fit or they no longer need that type of support. The group explains some of the ideal characteristics that dogs should possess to become service dogs. Kat also discusses dog breed-specific considerations for service work. Throughout our discussion, dog welfare considerations are noted. And finally, the group shares their thoughts on what they'd like to see happen for the service dog environment in Canada in terms of what would help veterans, their families, and service dogs.
Related Resources
Krause-Parello, C. A., Friedmann, E., Taber, D., Zhu, H., Quintero, A., & Yount, R. (2025). Veterans Training Service Dogs for Other Veterans: An Animal-Assisted Intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Behavioral Sciences, 15(9), 1180. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15091180
LaFollette, M. R., Rodriguez, K. E., Ogata, N., and O’Haire, M. E. (2019). Military veterans and their PTSD service dogs: associations between training methods, PTSD severity, dog behavior, and the human-animal bond. Front. Vet. Sci. 6:23. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00023
Salomons, H., Ferrans, M., Cusato, C., Moore, K., Woods, V., Bray, E., Kennedy, B., Block, T., Douglas, L., Roberts, A., Gruen, M., & Hare, B. (2026). Longitudinal evidence for the emergence of multiple intelligences in assistance dog puppies, Animal Behaviour, 232, 123410. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2025.123410.
Scotland-Coogan, D. (2019). Relationships, socialization and combat veterans: the impact of receiving and training a service dog. Qual. Rep. 24, 1897–1914. doi: 10.46743/2160-3715/2019.3590
Williamson, L., Squair, C., Rath, G., Khalid, A., and Kamal, M. (2025). An Environmental Scan of Service Dog Organizations, Policy, and Legislation in Canada. Available at: https://tinyurl.com/sdscan2025
Yarborough, B. J. H., Stumbo, S. P., Yarborough, M. T., Owen-Smith, A., and Green, C. A. (2018). Benefits and challenges of using service dogs for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Psychiatr. Rehabil. J. 41, 118–124. doi: 10.1037/prj0000294
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Andrew shares his story about what led him to working with his recently retired service dog Riggs. He highlights the value of speaking with other veterans who have worked with their own service dog to get a sense of what it might be like to have one. He summarizes some challenges in acquiring a service dog in Canada, as well as the benefits he ultimately experienced because of working with Riggs. He explains the human dog bond process that he experienced, as well as what it was like bringing his service dog to public places, including his workplace. We discussed dealing with anticipated stigma, mental health awareness, education and advocacy on invisible disabilities, increased representation, and changing narratives on these topics. We discuss educating the public on service dogs and interacting or not with veteran service dog teams. Andrew shares a bit about Riggs, including their day-to-day life and what it's been like working together, as well as outlines the retirement process for Riggs and plans that him and his family have with respect to getting another service dog or not. We discuss recognizing the changing needs of your service dog as well as yourself as a handler with a disability. Andrew provides advice for others who are considering working with their own service dog and provides some suggestions for improving the service dog environment in Canada in terms of what might help veterans and their dogs. And finally, Andrew shares the story about what led him to develop the not-for-profit Veterans and Everyday Heroes.
Related Resources
Audrestch, H. M., Whelan, C. T., Grice, D., Asher, L., England, G. C. W., and Freeman, S. L. (2015). Recognizing the value of assistance dogs in society. Disabil. Health J. 8, 469–474. doi: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2015.07.001
Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT). (2021). Considerations for the Use and Training of Service Dogs in Canada: Information for dog trainers and people with disabilities, including their support teams and service/care providers. https://capdt.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Draft-Report-to-CAPDT-on-Service-Dogs-March-29-2021.pdf
Crowe, T. K., Sánchez, V., Howard, A., Western, B., and Barger, S. (2018). Veterans transitioning from isolation to integration: a look at veteran/service dog partnerships. Disabil. Rehabil. 40, 2953–2961. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2017.1363301
Krause-Parello, C. A., and Morales, K. A. (2018). Military veterans and service dogs: a qualitative inquiry using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Anthrozoös 31, 61–75. doi: 10.1080/08927936.2018.1406201
Pierce, K. L., & Dreschel, N. A. (2023). Service dogs: A scoping review of interdisciplinary research. People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice, 6(1). https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol6/iss1/10
Ramirez J, Marsteller J, Gallo J, Bowie J, Morlock L, et al. Enhancing PTSD Management in Veterans: A Longitudinal Study of the Therapeutic Role of Psychiatric Service Dogs. J Arch Mil Med. 2025; 13(1): e159871. https://doi.org/10.5812/jamm-159871.
Rodriguez, K. E., LaFollette, M. R., Hediger, K., Ogata, N., and O’Haire, M. E. (2020b). Defining the PTSD service dog intervention: perceived importance, usage, and symptom specificity of psychiatric service dogs for military veterans. Front. Psychol. 11:1638. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01638
Taylor, M. F., Edwards, M. E., and Pooley, J. A. (2013). “Nudging them Back to reality”: toward a growing public acceptance of the role dogs fulfill in ameliorating contemporary veterans’ PTSD symptoms. Anthrozoös 26, 593–611. doi: 10.2752/175303713X13795775535896
Warda, T. (2025). Paws and reflect: Defining an assistance dog tasks. Trace: Journal for Human-Animal Studies, 12. DOI: https://doi.org/10.23984/fjhas.147388
Williamson, L. E., Dell, C. A., Osgood, N., Chalmers, D., Lohnes, C., Carleton, R. N., & Asmundson, G. (2021). Examining changes in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and substance use among a sample of Canadian veterans working with service dogs: An exploratory longitudinal study. Journal of Veterans Studies, 7(1), 1-13.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Sarah shares what led to her researching service dogs and her current focus on veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder who are partnered with service dogs. She provides a definition of service or assistance dogs and describes some of the different subtypes based on the kind of support they provide people with disabilities. She explains why dogs are the most common type of service animal and why might someone consider working with one. We discuss aspects of human and service dog partnerships and the service dog environment that folks should consider when starting the service dog acquisition process specific to the region they live in. We also compare the service dog context within the United States, where Sarah is based, to other world regions. We also discuss the issue of what's sometimes called “fraudulent” service dogs and what's at stake for both humans and dogs when a highly trained and or certified service dog is attacked by a not highly trained dog. We discuss the importance of educating people on service dogs and animal welfare more broadly. And Sarah outlines the current evidence on service dogs and veterans, as well as highlights the importance of research and how it complements the anecdotal evidence and numerous stories about the benefits and challenges of service dogs for people with disabilities. Sarah also outlines what it means to consider both ends of the leash. She also outlines what future research is required on service dogs and what's next for her and her team. We discuss the importance of researchers working with lived experience advisory committees and panels and even engaging in service dog training opportunities. And finally, we discuss the value of acquiring funding to conduct varying lines of research related to veterans and service dogs.
Related Resources
Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT). (2021). Considerations for the Use and Training of Service Dogs in Canada: Information for dog trainers and people with disabilities, including their support teams and service/care providers. https://capdt.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Draft-Report-to-CAPDT-on-Service-Dogs-March-29-2021.pdf
Crowe, T. K., Sánchez, V., Howard, A., Western, B., and Barger, S. (2018). Veterans transitioning from isolation to integration: a look at veteran/service dog partnerships. Disabil. Rehabil. 40, 2953–2961. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2017.1363301
Krause-Parello, C. A., and Morales, K. A. (2018). Military veterans and service dogs: a qualitative inquiry using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Anthrozoös 31, 61–75. doi: 10.1080/08927936.2018.1406201
Pierce, K. L., & Dreschel, N. A. (2023). Service dogs: A scoping review of interdisciplinary research. People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice, 6(1). https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol6/iss1/10
Ramirez J, Marsteller J, Gallo J, Bowie J, Morlock L, et al. Enhancing PTSD Management in Veterans: A Longitudinal Study of the Therapeutic Role of Psychiatric Service Dogs. J Arch Mil Med. 2025; 13(1): e159871. https://doi.org/10.5812/jamm-159871.
Rodriguez, K. E., LaFollette, M. R., Hediger, K., Ogata, N., and O’Haire, M. E. (2020b). Defining the PTSD service dog intervention: perceived importance, usage, and symptom specificity of psychiatric service dogs for military veterans. Front. Psychol. 11:1638. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01638
Taylor, M. F., Edwards, M. E., and Pooley, J. A. (2013). “Nudging them Back to reality”: toward a growing public acceptance of the role dogs fulfill in ameliorating contemporary veterans’ PTSD symptoms. Anthrozoös 26, 593–611. doi: 10.2752/175303713X13795775535896
Warda, T. (2025). Paws and reflect: Defining an assistance dog tasks. Trace: Journal for Human-Animal Studies, 12. DOI: https://doi.org/10.23984/fjhas.147388
Williamson, L. E., Dell, C. A., Osgood, N., Chalmers, D., Lohnes, C., Carleton, R. N., & Asmundson, G. (2021). Examining changes in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and substance use among a sample of Canadian veterans working with service dogs: An exploratory longitudinal study. Journal of Veterans Studies, 7(1), 1-13. http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v7i1.194
All interviews featured on the podcast occurred over zoom and because of this, some sound distortions may be heard due to lagging internet connections.
🇨🇦 Canada - socialSciences
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