About Paws 4 Valour
Built by Veterans. Inspired by Dogs. Strengthened by Community.
Paws 4 Valour is a volunteer-driven, canine-assisted peer support initiative serving Veterans, serving Canadian Armed Forces members, RCMP members, and First Responders.
Founded on the belief that the connection between people and their dogs can be a powerful source of strength, our program brings together individuals who share a common understanding of service, sacrifice, and the challenges that can follow.
We use positive canine activities, meaningful social connections, and a welcoming environment to help participants rediscover confidence, build friendships, and strengthen the bond with their four-legged fireteam partners.
At P4V, we don't just build better dog-handler teams. We build a community where nobody has to stand alone.
Our Mission
To provide high-quality canine-assisted peer support experiences, at no cost to eligible participants, that strengthen the bond between people and their dogs, encourage positive mental well-being, and create lasting social connections.
Through shared experiences, practical activities, and continued community involvement, Paws 4 Valour helps participants build confidence, reconnect with others, and discover renewed purpose through companionship.
Why Paws 4 Valour Exists
Sometimes the hardest step is simply getting out the door.
For many who have served, transitioning through life's challenges can bring feelings of isolation, uncertainty, or disconnection.
Dogs have a remarkable way of helping us take that next step. They give us routine, companionship, motivation, and a reason to connect with the world around us.
Paws 4 Valour was created to build on that connection.
Our goal isn't to fix anyone or promise that every challenge will disappear. It's to create opportunities for understanding, friendship, personal growth, and moments of happiness along the way.
Because healing journeys are different for everyone, but nobody should have to travel them alone.
Our Approach
Connection First. Skills Along the Way.
Paws 4 Valour isn't a traditional obedience school or a service-dog certification program.
Our activities are designed to strengthen the relationship between participants and their dogs while encouraging confidence, positive experiences, and social interaction.
Professional canine trainers guide participants through practical, enjoyable activities, while our volunteer team helps create a supportive environment where friendships can develop naturally.
There are no rankings, no competition, and no expectation of perfection.
Progress is measured in stronger bonds, growing confidence, and meaningful connections.
What Makes Paws 4 Valour Unique
Paws 4 Valour is currently one of the only programs in Manitoba that combines:
Professional dog training..
Veteran peer support..
Canine-assisted wellness..
Social reintegration..
Community engagement..
Mental health support..
..within a structured and supportive group environment.
The program does not present itself as a clinical therapy dog service. Instead, it focuses on creating meaningful engagement, healthy routines, improved confidence, social connection, and long-term wellness through the human-canine bond.
Once a Member of the Pack, Always a Member
The connection doesn't end at graduation.
After completing Basic Paws Training, participants are welcomed into the P4V Pack, where the friendships and bonds they've developed can continue to grow.
Through organized walks, group activities, canine learning opportunities, and social gatherings, the Pack offers a reason to get out, reconnect, and enjoy time together.
No competition. No expectations. Just people, dogs, and a community that has your back.
Because every fireteam partner deserves a Pack.
What to Expect
At Paws 4 Valour, we understand that everyone has their own experiences, challenges, and reasons for joining.
Whether you're looking to strengthen the bond with your dog, meet others who understand your experiences, rebuild confidence, or simply enjoy time with your canine companion, you'll find a welcoming and supportive environment.
What you can expect:
Peer-led support: A welcoming, non-judgmental environment built on shared experiences, mutual understanding, and respect.
Professional canine guidance: Purposeful training activities that develop practical skills, trust, communication, and companionship with your own dog.
Meaningful connections: Opportunities to meet others who understand the unique experiences of military service, policing, and emergency response.
Confidence and companionship: A chance to learn, laugh, and grow alongside your canine partner.
Ongoing Pack activities: Opportunities to maintain friendships and continue social connections throughout the year.
Who Is Paws 4 Valour For?
Paws 4 Valour welcomes:
Canadian Armed Forces Veterans
Serving Canadian Armed Forces members
RCMP members and Veterans
First Responders
Whether you're looking to build confidence, strengthen your relationship with your dog, meet new people, or simply enjoy being part of something meaningful, there's a place for you.
Our programs are offered at no cost to eligible participants.
You don't need to have all the answers. You just need to be willing to take that first step.
From Our Pack
Real people. Real dogs. Meaningful connections.
Every Paws 4 Valour participant has a different story, but we share something special: an understanding that companionship, trust, and connection can make a difference.
From the first nervous steps into a training session to the laughter and friendships that follow, these are the moments that remind us why P4V exists.
Discover the people, dogs, and experiences that make our Pack special.
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
Dr. Colleen Fisher, DVM, MSc
Our Community Partnership
Paws 4 Valour operates in partnership with Project Resilience 911 (PR911), which provides governance support, financial stewardship, and organizational guidance.
This partnership allows our volunteers and professional trainers to focus on delivering meaningful canine-assisted peer support activities while maintaining accountability and responsible program management.
Through the generosity of our donors, community partners, and volunteers, we are able to provide our program at no cost to eligible Veterans, Serving Military Members, RCMP, and First Responders.
Every contribution helps us strengthen connections, build community, and ensure that no one has to face their journey alone.
Ready to Find Your Pack?
Your dog already believes in you. Maybe it's time to believe in yourself.
Whether you're looking for connection, confidence, companionship, or simply a reason to get out and try something new, Paws 4 Valour is here to welcome you.
You and your canine fireteam partner don't have to take the journey alone.
Your next chapter begins with one paw forward.
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.
Shelley Doan
Dr. Colleen Fisher is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with over 35 years of experience and a Master's degree in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh. She has worked extensively with police service dogs, search and rescue teams, and assistance dog organizations, specializing in canine behaviour and the human-animal bond.
As a Fear Free Elite Certified veterinarian, Certified Service Dog Coach, and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Dr. Fisher brings exceptional knowledge, compassion, and evidence-based practices to the Paws 4 Valour team.
The Heart Behind Paws 4 Valour
Joel Langley, M.M.M, C.D, 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
Paws 4 Valour would not have been possible without the unconditional love and bonding of Harley. Harley was a gentle-natured dog who instinctively knew when I was at my lowest in life. His wonderful personality and affectionate heart made him a true companion and a lifesaver from the darkness that mental health can exacerbate. Harley seemed to understand the struggles I was facing and knew how to provide support and companionship, ensuring I never felt alone. Unfortunately, Harley crossed the rainbow bridge in February 2025, and it was quite devastating to lose my fireteam partner in life. It was his kindness and love that gave me the motivation to share the bonds a furry companion can bring. Paws 4 Valour is the creation born from Harley’s love for this old veteran, and hopefully, others can share this wonderful experience that I was so fortunate to experience.
Love you, my friend, and miss you every day!
Joel
Paws 4 Valour Stories
Where we operate
Location
Brandon, Manioba
