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Life with Service Dogs

Life with Service Dogs

Autor: Linzi Williamson & Grace Rath
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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).

    Episode 18: Reflecting on service dog research (Finale Episode) - Drs. Colleen Dell, Darlene Chalmers, and Linzi Williamson (Researchers).
    Jun 30 2026
    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. Links for Guest: Colleendell.com Servicedogresearch.ca Pawsitiveconnectionslab.com 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. Links for Guest: https://www.uregina.ca/social-work/directory/faculty/darlene-chalmers.html Servicedogresearch.ca Pawsitiveconnectionslab.com 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 ...
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    1 godz. i 17 min
  • Episode 17: Service dog retirement and loss (Part 2) - REV. DR. "Sandy" Scott and Rae-Ann Morgan (Veteran/Service Dog Handler; Spouse).

    Episode 17: Service dog retirement and loss (Part 2) - REV. DR. "Sandy" Scott and Rae-Ann Morgan (Veteran/Service Dog Handler; Spouse).
    Jun 30 2026
    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. Link Submitted by Guests: The dogs of postwar - Legion Magazine https://share.google/3QIOWmXgsuH1TmM0A 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 ...
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    26 min
  • Episode 16: Service dog retirement and loss (Part 1) – Dr. Nieky van Veggel (Researcher).

    Episode 16: Service dog retirement and loss (Part 1) – Dr. Nieky van Veggel (Researcher).
    Jun 30 2026
    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. Nieky van Veggel is a senior research fellow and applied social scientist at Anglia Ruskin University. He leads the OneWelfare Research Group and is the Director of the Professional Doctorate in Uniformed Public Services and Research Stage Lead for the Professional Doctorate in Health and Social Care. Nieky’s work focuses on animals as facilitators of social inclusion, and on scholarship of practice by health and social care professionals. Links Submitted by Guest: Nieky's website: https://www.niekyvanveggel.com/ https://www.aru.ac.uk/ Episode Summary: In this episode, Nieky begins by sharing what led to him conducting research on service or assistance dogs and focusing on the processes and impact of their retirement, which he and his team recognize as a spectrum. He notes the difficulty with securing funding to conduct research on service dogs and their handlers, given it's considered a niche topic within the domains of disability and health studies. We then discuss the need to further examine the knowledge and practices of health professionals in the domain of service dogs, particularly since they are often relied on to provide letters of support or recommendation indicating that a person with a disability would benefit from working with a service dog. Nieky explains some of the factors that might lead to a handler and service dog no longer working together and potential repercussions of this. He notes that there are many research gaps with respect to our understanding of service dog retirement. He explains some of the factors handlers may need to consider in cases where they have retired a service dog, then begin working with a new one. He also notes some of the difficulty of researching the complexity of service dog retirement. We discuss the concept and experience of grief as it relates to the retirement or loss of a service dog. Nieky describes some potential protective factors for handlers when they experience the loss of their service dog and the ways service dog providers or organizations can support their clients. He shares his hopes and plans for future research and practice related to service dogs. We discuss the importance of having a common language related to service dog terminology and definitions across the globe. Finally, Nieky encourages folks to reach out and share their ideas and experiences related to service dogs. 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 Linzi's Research Lab Website: https://pawsitiveconnectionslab.com/ (The views expressed in this podcast are solely of the guests and/or host.)Music by Evan MacDonald All interviews featured on the ...
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    51 min
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