For many women living with PTSD, anxiety, disabilities, or mobility challenges, a service dog is nothing short of life-changing. Unfortunately, in Canada, these dogs are incredibly difficult to access — especially for women.

As a first responder in emergency management, I developed severe PTSD following a work-related injury. When I tried to get a service dog, I was shocked to learn that even though I am a first responder, I did not qualify under the very limited programs that exist. There is almost no support available. The waitlists are years long, and women’s specific needs are rarely prioritized.

This experience opened my eyes to a much larger problem. For many women, the lack of a service dog can quite literally be the difference between surviving and merely existing.

This is why I am creating EmpowerHer Canines — a women-led nonprofit dedicated to breeding, raising, and professionally training service dogs specifically for women living with disabilities, PTSD, anxiety, and mobility challenges.

Our mission is clear: to build a legitimate, high-standard program using certified professional trainers that women can fully trust. We will not be another under-resourced owner-trainer program. We are committed to doing this the right way.

This work is deeply personal to me. Having lived the reality of being turned away, I am now committed to making sure other women never have to hear the words “there is nothing available for you.”

EmpowerHer Canines is still in its very early stages. This new mission is becoming a core part of my Venus work — one rooted in healing, empowerment, and real service.

I will be sharing this journey here as it unfolds.

Thank you for witnessing the beginning.