Lanark County paramedics partner with veterans’ service dog unit to support training

The Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) is teaming up with the Canadian Veterans Service Dog Unit in a new partnership aimed at supporting both paramedic wellness and the training of service dogs to aid both veterans and first responders.

The initiative, announced on Sept. 3, 2025, will see dogs in training spend time at paramedic bases between calls, helping them get accustomed to different people, environments and sounds. The arrangement provides a safe setting for the animals’ early socialization while simultaneously offering moments of comfort to paramedics on shift.

“This is an incredible partnership that will benefit both our staff and the future service dogs being trained,” said Tristan Layer, commander of operations at LCPS. “Our bases provide the perfect environment for socialization, and our teams are proud to play a role in advancing the important mission of CVSDU.”

The Canadian Veterans Service Dog Unit (CVSDU), a national non-profit, trains dogs to assist veterans and first responders living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and operational stress injuries.

“Paramedics face unique pressures in their work, and wellness support is essential,” said Travis Mellema, chief of LCPS. “Welcoming CVSDU dogs into our stations not only helps prepare them for service, but also provides our paramedics with the comfort, calm, and positive energy that animals naturally bring.”

CVSDU staff and dogs will join the LCPS Peer Support Team during monthly base visits and may also be accompanying superintendents on their routine rounds. The first visit is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 5.