Assistance Dogs helps first responders cope with PTSD

“We get more out of it than what we give, because it truly is heart-driven,” says CIAD chair and full-time nurse, Arra, who teasingly calls Johnson the organization’s spokesmodel.

“When we meet these people, their injury has them in this place where they’re so hypervigilant and so concerned with what’s going on that they can’t relax,” says Arra. “Running into someone who’s been paired with a dog at a big event like a wedding, with lots of noise and people, and they’re laughing and smiling with a CIAD dog there in a service vest and a tuxedo— my heart is just overwhelmed that our small group is able to make that kind of impact.”

Currently serving the Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island provinces, CIAD is working towards receiving accreditation through Assistance Dogs International, the international gold standard for service dogs.

And while the group is in its infancy and has a long way to go, Johnson hopes CIAD’S upcoming work and fundraisers bring awareness to the plight of first responders and veterans with PTSD.

“There’s people out there that want to make a difference, there’s people that think they make a difference—i can genuinely say this team makes a difference and they save lives,” says Johnson.

UPCOMING EVENT

– Trails N’ Tails – Support CIAD by attending their upcoming event, Trails N’ Tails, for a walk in support of first responders and veterans living with PTSD. The fundraiser will also include a BBQ, raffle, 50/50 draws, family activities and live music.

When: Oct 5 @ 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Where: 33 Leary Fraser Rd, Dayspring NS, Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

For more info, visit www.ciad.ca