October 7th, 2025
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in strong support of Partner Dogs Canada Inc. and its founder, Nancy Hatch. On February 1, 2024, my dog Jude was officially recognized as a Service Dog through their organization, a milestone that has changed my life in profound ways.
I was clinically diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Panic Attacks in 2021 following the sudden passing of my father. While medical care and therapy provided some support, it was through Partner Dogs Canada Inc. that I discovered a sustainable solution to manage my condition.
Jude’s role as a psychiatric service dog is medical, task-specific, and essential to my daily functioning. He performs key tasks, including:
- Deep Pressure Therapy to regulate my nervous system during anxiety attacks.
- Crowd Control in overstimulating or high-traffic environments.
- Tactile Interruption to stop panic attacks before they escalate.
These interventions have reduced the frequency and severity of my panic episodes and given me the confidence to live independently. When my husband relocated for work in December 2024, leaving me alone in a foreign country for the first time since my diagnosis, it was Jude who made that independence possible. Whether at home, in the gym, or navigating daily life abroad, I can rely on him to be there for me. In fact, in 2025 I experienced fewer panic attacks than ever before, evidence of the peace and empowerment his support brings.
Nancy’s program was also pivotal. As someone with severe anxiety, the pressure of training my lifeline felt daunting, yet Nancy guided me with patience and precision. Her comprehensive approach—covering everything from practical scenarios in malls and public spaces to the most minor details of cueing—ensured that Jude is not only reliable but exceptional.
Beyond the training, Nancy has been a mentor to me both in my work with Jude and in my life. My husband and I travel internationally for his job, and navigating the world with a service dog—especially across different countries and continents—has been a steep learning curve. Nancy has been there to guide me through the challenges, offering both practical advice and personal support. Her mentorship continues to be an invaluable resource as Jude and I move forward together.
My experience with Partner Dogs Canada Inc. has been nothing short of life-changing. Their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to excellence not only validated Jude as a service dog but also empowered me to regain independence and hope. I recommend their work and Nancy Hatch wholeheartedly and without hesitation.
Sincerely,
Ariella S.