Meet Epi, Ebony & Michelle!

When Michelle’s daughter, who is on the autism spectrum, asked for a black lab to help manage her anxiety, they found the perfect match in a pup who walked straight up to her as if he already knew where he belonged. That pup became Epi, named after an “EpiPen,” in honour of her daughter’s dream of becoming a paramedic.

Epi proved to be a quick learner, excelling in obedience training and volunteering in schools to support struggling readers. But when the pandemic hit, those visits came to a halt. Around the same time, Michelle’s mother was in a care home where no dogs were allowed due to COVID-19, a heartbreaking reality for residents who deeply missed their furry companions.

After retiring, Michelle reached out to St. John Ambulance to help restart the Therapy Dog Program in Winnipeg. While evaluations were still paused, she volunteered behind the scenes for over a year to help bring the program back to life. In 2023, Epi officially became a certified Therapy Dog and began visiting the Convalescent Home of Winnipeg, later expanding her role to support neurodiverse children at Rockwood School and greet travellers at the Winnipeg airport.

As Epi approached retirement age, Michelle returned to the same breeder and welcomed Ebony, Epi’s nephew, into the family. Ebony passed his certification with flying colours in August 2024 and now carries on Epi’s legacy with weekly visits that bring joy to residents and staff alike.

How Does It Feel to Give Back?

“It’s been an honour to help bring the program back to life and see how much comfort these dogs can offer to others.” - Michelle S.

Ready to Join the Pack?

Apply today to become part of a compassionate network of volunteers and their therapy dogs, making a difference across Canada.