MEET RICHARD & BISCUIT

Richard Chalke has been a Police Officer with the Vancouver Police Department since 1997. In 2019 he was diagnosed with complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of the many exposures to traumatic events and scenes over the years serving his community.

In his words, “I was suffering greatly, not able to work, socialize or maintain any semblance of a normal life. I was angry, riddled with grief and guilt and basically unable to function. To put it mildly I was a mess.” After many years of therapy through various PTSD programs, he was able to get to the point where he could operate at a reduced capacity. He was not happy about this, but felt that this was the best that he was going to get. Until, upon the recommendation of a co-worker, he applied to PADS to be considered for a PTSD service dog.

PADS BISCUIT: THE GAME CHANGER

In April of 2022 Richard was matched to PADS Biscuit, a dog that had been specifically trained at PADS to support a First Responder or Veteran with PTSD or Complex PTSD (C-PTSD). He provides important physical, calming and grounding skills that allow Richard to return to and even expand his past activities. 

“Since his arrival, Biscuit has had a profound impact on my wellbeing! He has given me the confidence to venture back into the world, going to restaurants, shopping centres and public events. He offers unconditional support wherever we are and is always quick to engage with me when I am feeling anxious or overwhelmed.”

Not only does Biscuit create confidence and connection that diminishes social  isolation, he’s also a warm, loving and highly trained friend that wakes Richard from night terrors. His calm, steady companionship is instantly calming – allowing Richard to quickly return to sleep.

With your support this holiday season, our next generation of life-changing assistance dogs will be ready to fall in step next to their client, just as Biscuit has.