New Delta breeding and training centre aims to ease service-dog shortage

BC & Alberta Guide Dogs has opened a new breeding and training facility in Delta, where some of the organization’s first litters have now been bred and born. The organization says the technology in the facility will help meet growing demand for guide and service dogs.

Breeding-program lead Linda Thornton said the unit is the first of its kind in Western Canada. Staff use ultrasound equipment about 28 days after breeding to confirm pregnancies, and Thornton said the new equipment has improved speed and accuracy.

The 10,000-square-foot building cost $8.1 million and was funded through donations, federal grants and long-term planning, according to organization head Bill Thornton. He said the organization expects to double the number of service dogs it graduates in the next few years.

The dogs support people beyond those with visual impairments, including people with autism, veterans with PTSD and first responders dealing with burnout. After specialized training, dogs are matched with partners; foster volunteer Lori Coghill recently saw Phil graduate to work with the Port Coquitlam Fire Department.