More than two decades ago, Sarah Duemo began volunteering as a dog groomer while managing her own mental health challenges.

The work quickly became the St. Catharines native’s happy place — finding peace in its quiet, rhythmic routine and keeping herself grounded in the moment.

As the water and suds turned into her sanctuary, Duemo recognized the therapeutic impact dogs could have on others facing similar struggles.

Years later, after moving to British Columbia, she was diagnosed with cancer and began undergoing treatment. Although neither of her two Shih Tzus were trained for service work, they responded whenever Duemo’s heart rate spiked, licking her face and running to get help.

“They did it on instinct,” she said. “My interest in what a dog could do was redoubled. If these dogs tha

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