John Dugas – Executive Director, Courageous Companions / Founder, Holdfast K9
I’ve chosen to share my personal journey through Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with the hope that it may reach someone who is struggling—and encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and seek support. If this story helps even one person, it’s worth telling.
I retired from the Canadian Armed Forces in 2008
I retired from the Canadian Armed Forces in 2008 as a Warrant Officer after 22 years of service as a Combat Engineer and Combat Diver. I then transferred to the Primary Reserve Force, serving an additional eight years, and retired as a Master Warrant Officer in 2015. My military career included four operational tours in Yugoslavia (1992–1993, 1994, 2000, and 2003), and three domestic deployments supporting disaster relief operations during the Red River Floods, the Quebec Ice Storms, and the Swissair Flight 111 crash. As a diver, I also participated in numerous recovery missions in support of law enforcement agencies.
In 2006, I was officially diagnosed with PTSD following a series of behavioral challenges including aggression and insubordination. I began weekly therapy sessions, which continued for two years. After leaving the military, I stepped away from treatment, believing I had healed enough to manage on my own.
Despite living with PTSD, I was fortunate to maintain steady employment in municipal engineering. Like many others, I kept going because I had responsibilities—bills to pay and a family to support. But beneath the surface, I was struggling. For years, I kept my PTSD hidden. At home, I became withdrawn, spending most of my time alone in the garage. At work, I isolated myself in my cubicle, only engaging with others when necessary. What once came naturally—social interaction—had become something I had to force. The effort it took to “appear normal” was exhausting.
Over time, my ability to cope diminished. I began experiencing serious memory and concentration issues, chronic sleep disruptions, and emotional volatility. I would wake in panic, drenched in sweat, knowing that something deeper wasn’t right. While medication helped, it also made functioning during the day more difficult. I was running on autopilot, wearing a mask of normalcy while feeling like I was falling apart inside.
I often describe PTSD as being trapped in a hole. I’ve fallen into that hole many times over the years, always managing to dig my way out. But between 2012 and 2015, I found myself in the deepest one yet—and I just kept digging. The suicide of two close friends during that period was a turning point. I knew I needed help again and, in the fall of 2015, I resumed therapy. That decision marked the beginning of my true recovery.
During this time, someone suggested I consider a service dog. Initially, I was hesitant. The idea of being visibly marked as someone with a disability was difficult for me. I had spent so many years hiding it. But a colleague encouraged me to embrace this new chapter—that living openly could be liberating. His support changed everything. I applied to the Courageous Companions program and found a deep sense of belonging among others who shared my struggles. I started attending group training sessions even before I was paired with a dog. The community offered me a safe space—free of judgment, full of understanding.
Eventually, I was matched with K9 Mia, a dog who changed my life and helped pull me out of the hole. When Mia was retired due to injury, I was paired with K9 Bailey, and on the recommendation of my healthcare provider, I pursued off-leash certification to improve public access. With each dog, my symptoms became more manageable. Life didn’t suddenly become easy—but it became possible again.
To anyone facing similar challenges: you are not alone. If you find yourself in a hole, put down the shovel and reach out. The road to healing begins with one conversation. If you’re near me, let’s grab a coffee. Even if we sit in silence, you’ll know someone is there. No more secrets—just get busy living.
Professional Background – John Dugas
Executive Director – Courageous Companions
Founder & Lead Trainer – Holdfast K9
Since assuming leadership of Courageous Companions, I have focused on expanding the organization's reach, credibility, and impact within the veteran and service dog communities. Under my direction, the organization has achieved the following milestones:
- $1.6 million in total funds raised since 2016
- 61 professionally trained service dogs placed with clients
- 71 owner-trained service dog teams mentored and overseen
- In 2023, after three years of rigorous preparation, Courageous Companions received formal accreditation from the Canadian Accreditation Council, a nationally recognized body for nonprofit governance and training standards
In addition to my role with Courageous Companions, I am the founder and lead trainer of Holdfast K9, a Government of Alberta–Approved Service Dog Training Organization based in Spruce Grove, Alberta. Since 2021, Holdfast K9 has supported the development and training of approximately 40 service dog teams across the province, helping individuals gain greater independence through canine-assisted support.
My experience also includes three years of volunteer service as a Band Constable in Northern Manitoba, during which I conducted operational deployments with K9 Ammo, my Belgian Malinois. I personally trained and certified Ammo through the MSAR Service Dogs Working Dog Program. His specialized training includes advanced tracking, apprehension, and cadaver search.
What distinguishes K9 Ammo is his dual-purpose capability. In addition to his police duties, he is trained in three key psychiatric service tasks:
- Nightmare interruption
- Emotional regulation
- Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)
While K9 Ammo does not have public access as a full-time medical service dog, he plays a vital role by providing on-demand medical support during field operations, making him an exceptional and highly versatile working partner.
To learn more about K9 Ammo, visit: https://msarservicedogs.com/k9-ammo/