02/26/2026
Loneliness is a profound affliction, especially for seniors and those in medical care. But sometimes, the best medicine has four legs, a wagging tail, and—in Alfie’s case—a custom-made fez. 🐾❤️
We witness miracles every day through our Therapy Dog Program. Clinical studies show that just a 20‑minute session with a therapy dog can provide a greater immediate reduction in loneliness than a visit from a person alone.
Swipe 👉 to meet two of our incredible BC & Yukon volunteer therapy dogs that help prove this science right:
🐶 Meet Jaxon (and his human, Jana!): Jana is our volunteer Unit Facilitator in Powell River. Jaxon is a busy guy, bringing smiles to three elementary schools weekly and a drop-in center for challenged adults. Off the clock, you can find this cool guy rocking his shades and hitting the trails for Friday morning pack hikes. 🕶️🌲
🐶 Meet Alfie (and his human, Doug!): Alfie is known in our Surrey division for his impeccable style. His hats? Custom-made by Doug’s 99-year-old mother, who headed military wardrobe for NBC in the 70s, made Johnny Carson's hats, and worked with Bob Mackie for Sonny and Cher! 🎩 Alfie is a bit of a ham with his own film agent, but his true calling is healing.
Doug joined our program after a profound experience: During a visit while his father was in hospice, a St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog laid on his dad's chest, bringing him a radiant smile and immense comfort. Doug and Alfie now continue that legacy of joy, comforting everyone from RCMP officers and children at vaccination sites, to Doug's own mother-in-law during her battle with dementia.
Our therapy dogs ease pain and bring lasting comfort. Help us keep these volunteer teams out in the community:
🚑 Register for a first aid course (proceeds fund the program!).
🎒 Purchase your home and workplace safety supplies from us.
💳 Donate directly (see below).
Read more about our community impact and donate today at www.sjaimpact.ca. ✨