Empowering Lives with PADS Dogs: A Conversation with Meredith Areskoug

Today on Face to Face, Meredith Areskoug, Media and Development Coordinator from the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS). PADS plays an essential role in the Tri-Cities community by providing expertly trained service dogs to individuals with disabilities, as well as offering valuable support to community professionals.

Genevieve Kyle Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

Meredith explains that PADS specializes in training a variety of assistance dogs to meet the diverse needs of people with physical disabilities, hearing impairments, and even psychological challenges such as PTSD. “We raise and train our dogs from puppyhood to become invaluable companions for those facing mobility issues or mental health struggles,” Meredith shares.

These dogs offer more than just companionship—they are a lifeline for their handlers, enabling greater independence and enhancing quality of life. PADS dogs are not only trained for one-on-one service; they also serve as facility dogs in schools, law enforcement agencies, and other community settings. Meredith describes how facility dogs work alongside the RCMP or in classrooms to provide emotional support and help create a calm, welcoming environment. “Their presence has a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of both students and professionals,” she explains.

One of the unique ways Tri-Cities families can contribute to PADS is by becoming foster families. Meredith explains the fostering process, which involves taking in a PADS puppy and helping socialize it until it’s ready for formal training. “Fostering a future service dog is an incredibly rewarding experience,” Meredith says. She adds that PADS provides comprehensive support and training to foster families, ensuring they are well-equipped to guide these dogs through their early development.

Throughout the conversation, Meredith shares touching success stories of families in the Tri-Cities who have fostered PADS dogs, watching them grow into life-changing companions. From aiding individuals with mobility challenges to providing emotional support to those with PTSD, PADS dogs are transforming lives. The organization’s commitment to enhancing independence and promoting community well-being resonates deeply in every story shared. For those interested in fostering or learning more about PADS’ mission, Meredith encourages the community to get involved. “The impact these dogs make is truly extraordinary, and every foster family plays a vital role in that journey,” she concludes.