Pawsitive Directions Canine Program

Service dog SpiritHeather doing a demonstration with Service dog Spirit


Heather developed "Pawsitive Directions Canine Program" for Corrections Services Canada in 1995, and ran it for 15 years.  In a three-phase program, female inmates learned the principles of Operant Conditioning Behaviour Analysis and all aspects of dog care and training.  Rescue dogs were trained and adopted into the community as Service dogs.
LuckyThe Harris Family and Service dog, Lucky


During the 15 year period in which Heather ran the Pawsitive Directions Canine Program for Corrections Services Canada, 54 dogs were rescued, trained and rehomed. Service Dogs were trained for stroke and polio survivors, the sight impaired, children with autism, cerebral palsy and people with a wide range of mobility challenges.


Heather retired from Pawsitive Directions in 2010, and now trains Service dogs at Cloverfield with graduates of her "Train the Trainer" program.
Service dog Prince
Service dog "Prince Edward" goes to school every day with his handler.
Service dog Ginger
The sweet Ginger was May's Service dog.