Your Dog knows you're a hero, do you?
Sign Up Here
Our Volunteer Trainers
Ngaire Abernethy is a retired social worker and certified trick dog instructor. Her retired therapy dog, Tai, is a Grand Champion Trick Dog. Ngaire and her current canine partner, little Koki, serve as a certified animal-assisted crisis response team
Ngaire Abernethy
Gabrielle (Gabby) pelletier
Shelley Doan
Gabrielle Pelletier is a developing CCPDT canine trainer with nearly three years at the Paw Resort and Wellness Centre. She leads puppy classes, offers training and group walks, and is inspired by dogs’ learning and growth.
Shelley Doan, founder of 20/20 Canine Consultants, is a certified canine behavior expert with 15+ years of experience. Inspired by her challenging dog Max, she blends science-based training, research, and empathy to help owners and dogs at home and in real-world environments.
Joel Langley, M.M.m, CWO (Retired)
Joel Langley served 37 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, dedicating his life to leadership, discipline, and supporting those around him. Like many who serve, he faced his own mental health challenges, often feeling the weight of years spent in high-stress environments.
When Joel’s beloved dog passed away, he realized just how much a canine companion had supported his emotional well-being throughout his career and into retirement. That loss made clear the powerful role dogs play in healing, routine, and connection.
Together with his wife Shauna, Joel founded Paws 4 Valour—a place where military members, veterans, and first responders can come together, train with their dogs, rebuild camaraderie, and support one another through shared experience. Their mission is simple: to create a welcoming space where no one feels alone, and where the bond between people and their dogs becomes a bridge back to community and connection.
Shauna Langley
Shauna Langley spent her life as a dedicated military spouse, holding her family together through many deployments, relocations, and the uncertainties of military life. While raising two children, often on her own during her husband's long absences, she provided the stability, strength, and love that kept the Langley family grounded.
Shauna walked beside Joel through every step of his mental health journey, offering unwavering support, compassion, and resilience. Her understanding and strength played a vital role in helping their family navigate the challenges that come with long-term service.
Sharing Joel’s belief in the healing power of community and canine companionship, Shauna helped co-found Paws 4 Valour. Her passion is to create a safe, welcoming space where veterans, first responders, and their families can connect, heal, and rediscover the camaraderie they deserve.
founders
Where we operate
Location
Brandon, Manioba
