OUR NEWS
Meet Team Bagel
CLIENT BLOG: PADS Bagel has been putting her best paw forward in her new role as an Accredited Facility Dog with Manitoba Justice Victim Services.
PADS Volunteer Information Sessions
Join us for a PADS Volunteer Information Session, and learn how you can make an impact by volunteering with PADS.
PADS Beaumont passes after over a decade of service
CJME News reports Weyburn police dog PADS Beaumont passes after over a decade of service. Learn more about his remarkable career and legacy.
Meet Team Petra
CLIENT BLOG: Petra is following in the paw prints of PADS Nessa at Treehouse Vancouver Child and Youth Advocacy Centre. Read about her impact in the words of her partner.
Meet Team Glisten
CLIENT BLOG: Glisten has slipped seamlessly into her new role as an Accredited Facility Dog at the BC CDC. Read about her impact in the words of her partner, Ali.
Meet Team Fraser
CLIENT BLOG: Fraser is a big dog making a big impact. With his chill personality and big heart, he’s changed his clients life.
Meet Team Gherkin
CLIENT BLOG: PADS Gherkin leapt into his client’s life at just the right time, and now, the pair are inseparable. Read all about this partnership, in Team Gherkin’s own words.
Making travel fur-iendly: YVR teams up with PADS to improve accessibility
PADS’ partnership with YVR sees a new initiative take flight, giving service dogs exposure to the sights, sounds, and smells of an airport.
Meet Team Kasota
CLIENT BLOG: Kasota has been shining her own unique light at the Dr Peter Centre in Vancouver. Read about her impact in the words of her partner, Melissa.
Meet Team Waffle
CLIENT BLOG: Team Waffle are all smiles after being matched. Read about Waffles impact on his partners life, in her own words.
Meet Team Pinto
CLIENT BLOG: Team Pinto have found a renewed sense of independence after being matched last year.
Meet Team Toast
CLIENT BLOG: Tom describes the impact that PADS AFD Toast has had at Surrey Christian Elementary.
AFD Iris II Retires
After a long career supporting students as an Accredited Facility Dog, PADS AFD Iris II has officially hung up her blue vest.
CBC RADIO: Yukon Morning with Elyn Jones | August 15, 2025
Elyn Jones reports on Ali Harper and her dog Thorin, who are participating in a charity tournament in Whitehorse this weekend to raise funds for support dogs for first responders.
Meet Team DeeDee
CLIENT BLOG: In her own words, hear how PADS DeeDee has become a companion, a guardian, and a bridge to independence for Rhi.
Pickleball, Pints, and Purpose
Pacific Assistance Dogs Society and the qathet Pickleball Association teamed up for a day of fun and fundraising in July at Dinks and Drinks for Dogs 2025.
Burnaby Puppy Days: Learn More About Volunteering
Puppy Days Info Sessions are a chance to learn more about volunteering at PADS. You’ll also get to meet some of our amazing volunteers and dogs in training!
Meet Team Tahsis
CLIENT BLOG: Read how PADS Tahsis has restored Sarah-Kate’s independence.
Meet the Class of 2024 VIPs
Meet the Very Important Pets who landed in their furever homes in 2024!
Meet Team Alma
CLIENT BLOG: Team Alma is making an incredible impact for communities in Cranbrook, B.C!
Meet Team Silky II
CLIENT BLOG: Hughie’s retirement is looking brighter with Silky II by his side! Read about the incredible impact Silky is making.
Meet Team Link II
CLIENT BLOG: Read all about how Link’s positive attitude and happy tail are making an incredible impact to the children he meets.
Meet Team Asti
CLIENT BLOG: Every day is ‘take your dog to work day’ for Team Asti!
Community Development Event and Volunteer Coordinator | Position Filled
We are seeking someone to fill the role of Community Development Event & Volunteer Coordinator, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.
Applicant and Client Care Specialist | Position Filled
We are seeking someone to fill the role of Applicant and Client Care Specialist, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.
Meet Team Camilo
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Camilo. Discover how Camilo is spreading his ‘Milo’ magic across Vancouver Island.
Apprentice Puppy Instructor | Position Filled
We are seeking someone to fill the role of Apprentice Puppy Instructor, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.
APPLICATIONS CLOSED: Hope II
Hope II is a sweet girl with a ton of personality, and she’s looking for her next adventure!
APPLICATIONS CLOSED: Finch
The determined, resilient, and intelligent Finch is ready for her next adventure!
Paws and Effect: Radar’s Impact on Student Well-Being
Radar II is an accredited facility dog at St Michaels University School, where he works in the counselling department.
Puppies-in-training get glimpse of guiding future at Okanagan grad
The Keremeos Review reports on PADS Okanagan Graduation Celebration at Predator Ridge.
Meet Team Ky
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Ky. Read how Ky has impacted Marni’s life in incredible ways.
Bridge City News: New service dog Link to assist at Chinook Sexual Assault Centre
Bridge City News reports on PADS Link II, the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre’s new Accredited Facility Dog (AFD).
Meet Team Sequin
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Sequin. Together, Team Sequin have found the confidence to navigate a quieted world.
2025 Spring Newsletter
Springing Forward – As spring begins to appear, it reminds us of the resilience all around us. After a cold, windy and somewhat soggy winter (with many muddy paws) – the growth going unseen has begun to appear. We are springing ahead with wonderful new opportunities.
Meet Team Diego
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Diego. Tamara shares how PADS Diego is fostering a sense of belonging at Carson Graham Secondary School with his unique personality and gentle spirit.
Meet Team Pyxis
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Pyxis. Dana shares how together, this team is helping medium-sized humans manage stress, build confidence, and stay focused.
Meet Team Quiche
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Quiche. Quiche’s partner shares how this dog’s presence is having a profound impact on every student she meets.
APPLICATIONS CLOSED: Gamora
Sweet and spicy Gamora is ready for her next adventure!
Meet Team Aslan
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Aslan. Christopher shares how Aslan has brought comfort, connection, and countless smiles to Carson Graham Secondary. His calming presence supports students and staff alike—proving every day just how powerful a dog’s love can be.
Meet Team Abra
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Abra. Our client shares how being paired with a hearing dog helped bring her confidence back.
Meet Team Shimmer
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Shimmer. In her own words, Shimmer’s client shares her gratitude for her service dog!
Our Shared Invictus Experience
A recap of our incredible experience at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver & Whistler (Feb 2025).
Meet Team Beans
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Beans III. In his own words, Dave shares his journey with PADS and meeting his new partner Beans!
Meet Team Smore
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Smore. In his own words, Smore’s partner tells how AFD Smore is making a positive impact in his role as ‘Chief Happiness Officer’ at Rochester Elementary School.
Meet Team Radar II
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Radar II. In his own words, Radar’s partner tells how Radar is making an impact in his role as an Accredited Facility Dog at St Michaels University School, and as a loved member of his partner’s family.
PADS In Bloom: Hanging Basket Fundraiser
Support life-changing dogs by ordering beautiful spring hanging baskets. Available in both sun and shade!
PADS AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2024
PADS 2022 Financial Statements were audited by Crowe Mackay LLP
Delta Optimist: Delta assistance dogs lighten the mood at Invictus Games
At Invictus Games 2025, assistance dogs from Delta supported veterans. These professionally trained dogs helped alleviate stress and ease the psychological challenges faced by participants.
Peace Arch News: Surrey clinic marks 10 years supporting victims of violence
The Embrace Clinic in Surrey has provided medical care to over 5,000 survivors of violence since its opening in January 2015. Located in the Shirley Dean Pavilion, the clinic offers services including injury treatment, infection screening, and referrals to community resources.
CBC RADIO: Yukon Morning with Elyn Jones | February 21, 2025
Elyn Jones reports on Ali Harper and her dog Thorin at Invictus Games 2025. They provided support to the competing athletes and their families.
YUKON NEWS: Dog offering support to athletes at Invictus Games
Yukon News report on PADS dog Thorin and his handler Ali Harper providing support to veterans competing at Invictus Games 2025.
BIV’s 2025 Influential Women in Business awards: Kristy James
Kristy James is the current vice-chair for Pacific Assistance Dogs Society. She emphasizes authentic leadership and work-life balance, aiming to make a lasting impact both professionally and personally.
Maple Ridge News: PADS Dogs at Invictus
A Maple Ridge-trained PADS assistance dog Loki provided comfort and support at the Invictus Games. Loki played an important role in creating a calming environment for competitors with mental and physical challenges.
People – Prince Harry meeting PADS dog at Invictus 2025
During the Invictus Games on February 9, 2025, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met Thorin, a therapy dog supporting first responders. This interaction reminded Prince Harry of his late rescue beagle, Guy, who recently passed away.
Invictus Games 2025 Appreciation Post
At the Invictus Games 2025 (#IG25), service dogs play an important role in supporting the community. These dogs are present to help offer comfort and companionship to participants. Their presence helps to foster well-being within the Invictus Community.
THANK YOU PORT MOODY LEGION #119
We would like to thank the North Burnaby Royal Canadian Legion (Branch #148) for their generous donation of $7,500 from their Poppy Fund in support of PADS Program.
Meet Team Pepa
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Pepa. In her own words, Stephanie shares a touching and inspiring glimpse into the transformative bond she has formed with PADS Pepa.
How to Help PADS During the Postal Strike
Help PADS spread our Holiday message during the postal strike!
PADS Legends Plush
Get the set of three 2020 PADS Legends, Caber, Macbeth and Leahy!
Building Resilience and Community
PADS Partners with Brooks Secondary School’s CALM Program in Powell River, BC.
Meet Team Loki II
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Loki II. In her own words, Alysen shares how Loki is a ray of sunshine when everyone needed something positive.
Meet Team Lady
CLIENT BLOG: Meet Team Lady II. In their own words, Dez shares that Lady’s impact on their life has been transformative.
Celebrating Community in the Okanagan
Members of our management team visited our Okanagan Region recently and enjoyed the warm hospitality of our amazing community there.
Client Care Manager | Position Filled
We are seeking someone to fill the role of Client Care Manager, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.
MEET THE A&W LITTER
Meet the A&W Canada puppies, named after members of the iconic A&W burger family, spokesperson, and mascot, these adorable puppies are set to bring joy and hope to many lives.
THANK YOU NORTH BURNABY LEGION #148
We would like to thank the North Burnaby Royal Canadian Legion (Branch #148) for their generous donation of $7,500 from their Poppy Fund in support of PADS Program.
THANK YOU POWELL RIVER LEGION #164
PADS Development Manager Jane Short, along with Veteran Matt and PADS Fischer visited the Powell River Royal Canadian Legion (Branch #164) to present Valerie McGregor, Trustee of the Powell River Branch, with a plaque in appreciation of their generous support of out PTSD program.
THANK YOU COQUITLAM LEGION #263
Volunteers Ken with PADS Waffle and Kerry with PADS Sprinter visited the Coquitlam Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 263) last week to present them with a plaque in appreciation of their ongoing and generous support of our PTSD programs. Laurie Chapman, chair of the...
Instructor | Position Filled
We’re currently seeking a passionate and skilled individual to join us as an Instructor, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.
Calgary Site Supervisor | Position Filled
We are seeking a passionate and skilled individual to join our team as the Calgary Site Supervisor to help us fulfill our mission of providing life-changing assistance dogs.
Willow Park Charity Golf Classic Recap
The 2024 Willow Park Charity Golf Classic raised $575,000 for Pacific Assistance Dogs and will bring positive change for so many Calgarians.
CTV NEWS – CALGARY – Service Dog Shortage
CTV News Calgary Video Journalist Kevin Green reports on Pacific Assistance Dogs Society sounding the alarm over service dog shortage.
GLOBAL AB: DOUBLE YOUR DONATION – INTERNATIONAL ASSISTANCE DOG WEEK
Journalist Meghan Cobb of Global News Calgary speaks about the surge in the demand for assistance dogs.
GLOBAL BC: DOUBLE YOUR DONATION – INTERNATIONAL ASSISTANCE DOG WEEK
Join host Sonia Sunger, of the Global Morning Show, as she shares the urgent need for PADS Assistance Dogs.
Powell River Peak
Service dogs recognized at special City of Powell River meeting.
qathet Living
Help Sponsor a Litter of Assistance Dogs!
Grant Writer | Position Filled
We’re currently seeking a passionate and skilled individual to join us as a Grant Writer.
Recycle and Donate
Sick and tired of having to sort out the trash at the depot? Want to help PADS in a fun and unique way? Well do we have the opportunity for you!
Stronger Together | Team Stark
August 2024 will be Juliet’s 6th year of partnership with PADS PTSD dog Stark. To help her write an update of how far she has come, she went all the way back to October 2018 and her graduation speech at PADS.
PADS Puppy Days
Join us Thursday, June 13th, Saturday, June 22nd, or Thursday, July 4th at the Burnaby Campus to learn about volunteering with PADS!
Say Cheese | Team Queso
Queso is Sarah’s fourth Mobility Dog from Pacific Assistance Dogs (PADS), he has seamlessly become an incredible sidekick, enriching my daily life in ways I never thought possible.
ACCESSABILITY WEEK
PADS is partnering with Lime on an initiative to keep sidewalks clear for all pedestrians, especially those with mobility challenges or low vision.
CTV: Meet Thorin the dog, the newest Yukon EMS employee
Thorin the dog is the newest employee with Yukon’s EMS.
CTV: Calgary PADS Puppies
Host of CTV Calgary Shaun Frenette shares news about PADS latest litter of puppies.
IT & Systems Intern | Position Filled
We are seeking a summer inter for the role of IT & Systems Coordinator.
Digital Engagement and Events Coordinator Intern | Position Filled
We are seeking someone to fill the role of Calgary Volunteer Coordinator.
Vernon Matters: Dog day afternoon at Vernon pickleball facility
Puppies and pickleballers will come together this weekend at the Okanagan Wealth Advisors Pickleball Complex in Vernon’s Marshall Fields.
Global TV: Saturday Sips: Puppies and sips for everyone
Jennifer Palma gets a chance to meet two hard-working assistance dogs, and the founder of BC Distilled, and learns how the public can help PADS flourish.
CTV Morning Live Vancouver
CTV’s St John Alexander meets the Exclamation Litter and learns about what it takes to be a PADS Breeder Caretaker.
GET READY FOR TAX TIME
Sick and tired of having to sort out the trash at the depot? Want to help PADS in a fun and unique way? Well do we have the opportunity for you!
Samwise the Stouthearted
Named after the iconic character in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, PADS Samwise was always fated to be someone’s loyal companion.
PADS In Bloom: Hanging Basket Fundraiser
Support life-changing dogs by ordering beautiful spring hanging baskets. Available in both sun and shade!
Burnabynow: ‘Shaelyn loved dogs’: $10K donation made to PADS in slain Burnaby Mountie’s name
Outlet: Burnabynow Date: March 14, 2024 Host: Cornelia Naylor
FUND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER | POSITION FILLED
PADS is hiring for a Fund Development Manager who will have the unique opportunity to shape the future success and growth of the organization.
CANINE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR | POSITION FILLED
PADS is looking to have a dynamic admin professional join our team as the Canine Operations Coordinator and help us change lives one dog at a time!
PADS AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 2023
PADS 2022 Financial Statements were audited by Crowe Mackay LLP
MooseJaw Today: Victims of violent crime can seek comfort in Sven, a hard-working and lovable police dog
Outlet: Moose Jaw Today Date: February 22, 2024 Host: Aaron Walker
CBC: BC Today: Feb 9 Sparse snowpack fuels drought fears | The role of assistance dogs
Outlet: CBC Vancouver Show: BC Today Date: February 9, 2024 Host: Dan Burritt Time: The segment featuring PADS starts at 38:35 minute mark
TriCity News: The principal of this Coquitlam high school just got promoted
Outlet: Tri-City News Date: January 31, 2024 Author: Janis Cleugh