In the heart of Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, a young English Labrador named JJ is already making a difference—long before his official service dog certification is complete. Under the careful guidance of trainer Stacy Gravel, JJ is quietly transforming lives, one visit at a time.
Every week, JJ makes his rounds through schools, senior homes, and businesses, offering comfort and connection. He doesn’t just brighten rooms—he changes the atmosphere.
“These dogs carry a kind of magic,” said Gravel. “They create connections humans sometimes can’t. There’s something about them that opens people up.”
Gravel, founder of Bright Light Therapy Dogs, launched the initiative in 2024 with the mission of expanding access to service and therapy dogs in the North. JJ, now nearly two years old, has been in training since he was just nine weeks old, developing skills as both a service and facility support dog.
His training is done in partnership with Summit Service Dogs, an Alberta-based organization that prepares dogs for roles in medical alerts, anxiety support, social integration, and more.
The idea to start the company came from Gravel’s own health journey. During a serious illness years ago, she realized the emotional and practical benefits a service dog could have offered—but none were available locally. That gap inspired her to build a solution for others.
“We’re about a decade behind the South when it comes to having service dogs as part of everyday life,” she explained. “I want to help close that gap.”
One of JJ’s favorite destinations is the Northern Lights Special Care Home, where his visits spark smiles and stories. For residents like Debbie Beaulieu, who grew up surrounded by animals, JJ is more than just a visitor—he’s a reminder of the bond between people and pets.
“My face lights up when I see him,” Beaulieu said. “The residents here need that kind of spirit-lifting connection. Animals feel things. They don’t need to speak—they just know.”
JJ’s ability to remain calm around medical equipment isn’t accidental. Gravel has carefully desensitized him to mobility aids, oxygen tanks, medical sounds, and more. His training goes beyond basic obedience and includes scent detection, emotional regulation, and energy awareness.
“He can sense when someone is shutting down or distressed,” Gravel said. “He’ll gently nudge them as a way to alert or ground them. It’s subtle, but powerful.”
One breakthrough moment came when JJ interacted with a four-year-old girl who was mostly nonverbal. After several sessions, she began to speak more freely. Other children who once feared dogs now call JJ a friend.
“He improves people’s lives,” said Gravel. “You can see it in their faces. Every time, they light up.”
JJ is expected to complete his final certifications later this year. Once fully qualified, he’ll not only continue working in Fort Smith, but also help train future service dogs by setting a calm, steady example in challenging environments.
Gravel hopes JJ’s presence can serve a bigger purpose—raising awareness and building momentum so communities in the North don’t have to rely on southern resources.
“He’s paving the way,” she said. “JJ is our ambassador for what’s possible. When people meet him, they see potential. They ask questions. They understand.”
“What these dogs bring into our lives—it’s limitless.”
