Oiur board members

Kari - President

I have been professionally training dogs since 2010 but have had a lifelong passion for them. My first word was "puppy" and the dedication to canines only grew from there. I have long known and personally understood the therapeutic benefits of animals. I have taken much time in my life to bond with not only dogs, but also my horses. I knew at a very young age that my life would quite literally go to the dogs. I've always considered myself very lucky to know my path in life, without doubts or regrets. Though I started my career as a dog trainer and boarding facility, I have experience with: pet first aid, canine nutrition, scent detection, personal protection, tracking, canine behaviors, gun (hunting) dog and service dogs. The last one there is something very important to my career, but also to my life. In 2006 I was diagnosed with chronic anxiety. For 10 years I sought a resolution to my struggle with anxiety. In 2015 I got one. I was prescribed a service dog by my family doctor and from there my life changed drastically. It took 3 dogs and 3 years, but in June 2018, I successfully passed the owner trained public access test with my now service dog, Vandal.

I've long been an advocate for therapy through animals. I have volunteered in the past with both my Labrador retrievers for therapy dog events. I have personally benefited as well as witnessed the power of animals in therapeutic settings. I am so excited to share this dream with all of you and invite you along on our journey in advancing mental health options for both group and individual therapy through animals.

Jess - Admin & Treasurer

I work full time as an admin for the Rural Family Medicine program in Red Deer through the UofA. Animals have always played a huge role in my life wether it be raising baby raccoons that were abandoned to having a variety of pets growing up (parrot, rat, hamster, hedgehog, cat and dogs). I rode horses as a child and teenager and thankfully in last 5 years they are now as staple in my life again.

The dog who started it all for me is my big goofball of a Rottie mutt Bane. He was born in 2015 and after seeing how much joy he brought those who met him I decided to get him evaluated as a Therapy dog. The difference he makes in an individual's day when they come across him only increased my desire to do more and help those struggling with their mental health.