The Canadian Foundation for Animal-Assisted Support Services

Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, traditions, and enduring contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada.

We acknowledge the deep and longstanding relationships Indigenous communities have held with the land, animals, and the environment for generations, relationships grounded in respect, reciprocity, stewardship, and interconnected well-being.

These values closely reflect the principles of One Health, reminding us that the health and well-being of people, animals, communities, and the environment are deeply connected.

Today is an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous knowledge, listen with humility, and continue learning from the wisdom and teachings that have long recognized the importance of balance, connection, and caring for one another and the world around us.

💙 Happy Fathers Day to all the incredible dads, fur dads, and pet dads out there!💙🦸🏻‍♂️😁🐾

CF4AASS appreciates the growing national conversation recognizing the valuable role service dogs can play in supporting veterans and the importance of continuing dialogue around best practices and standards in Canada.❤️🐾

The Legion has been calling for national training and certification standards for psychiatric service dogs for at least a decade, and we hope a recent private member’s bill introduced in the House of Commons by MP Michael Barrett will push this topic into the limelight again. A previous government plan to achieve such standards was initially unsuccessful due to a lack of consensus among affected groups. The Legion believes that high, consistent standards are key and would help facilitate the provision of funds to Veterans – and others - who could be assisted by a service dog. Standards act to protect both the recipient and the trained dog and help ensure successful pairings. This powerful connection requires a major commitment. The Legion’s Ontario Command recently celebrated its 100th service dog pairing through its financial support of Wounded Warriors Canada. Their existing standards could even form the basis of a new government-led national standard. The Legion looks forward to being part of this important conversation.
https://www.legion.ca/news/2016/12/14/legion-calls-on-government-to-address-deficiencies-in-standards-and-supports-for-service-dogs

The Canadian Foundation for Animal-Assisted Support Services (CF4AASS) welcomes the introduction of Private Member Bill C-282, a positive step towards officially recognizing the important role service dogs play in supporting Canada’s veterans. Spearheaded by MP Michael Barrett, the Bill aims to amend the Veterans Well-being Act to recognize and include service dogs as a vital part of the rehabilitation services available to veterans.

We genuinely value the incredible bond between humans and animals and the supportive role service dogs play. Although Bill C-282 is still in its early stages, we’re grateful for the ongoing efforts to find innovative ways to support the well-being of Canada’s veterans through Animal-Assisted Human Services (AAHS).

To learn more about CF4AASS, service dogs, and the well-being of veterans, and to find links to review or download Bill C-282, please visit: https://www.cf4aass.ca/resource-one/serving-those-who-serve-and-have-served.

Happy to all the amazing and dedicated veterinarians that work so hard to keep our animals happy and healthy. Your compassion, commitment, and love for our most treasured friends/partners is truly appreciated and does not go unnoticed!💜🐶🐱🐴

Recognize your volunteers through Canada's Volunteer Awards!

Canada’s Volunteer Awards are seeking your nominations for those who have made a real impact by addressing social challenges in their communities. Nominations are due on June 17th.

To learn more, click here: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/volunteer-awards.html

Employment and Social Development Canada

"If love could have saved you you would have lived forever" - David Ellsworth

World Pet Memorial Day is on June 9th, a day to remember and celebrate the lives of our departed companions. Time may pass, but the imprint they leave on our hearts remains forever. 💗

Honour their memory and help animals in need, though a gift in their name to Humane Canada. Not only will you pay tribute to their lives, but you’ll improve the welfare of animals nationwide. 🐾

Your gift will help to create brighter futures for animals across Canada - a lasting legacy, indeed. 🌷Make your meaningful donation here: https://humanecanadadonation.raiselysite.com/