NEWS RELEASE: November 10, 2021
USask provides ‘PAWSitive’ toolkit for service dog organizations working with veterans
SASKATOON – In commemoration of Remembrance Day, registration is now open for a free online course, led by University of Saskatchewan (USask) health researchers, for service dog organizations working with veterans.
Dr. Colleen Dell (PhD), USask Research Chair in One Health and Wellness and co-founder of the PAWSitive Support project, and a team of experts have put together a course as part of a toolkit that informs service dog trainers about recovery from substance use harms; the important role of peer support; and connection to animals, humans, and the land in the wellness of veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Watch the trailer here.
This self-paced, two-hour course includes an online certificate and is funded by Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program.
The project team includes more than 30 individuals from universities across Canada, the veteran community, service dog organizations, and guidance from Indigenous Elders and from working alongside service dogs.
Service dog organization staff and volunteers can register now at www.servicedogtoolkit.ca
The course and complete toolkit will be available in January 2022.
This project has been made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.