Canine Companions: Captain Nick Watling and Therapy Dog Deb

Every Canine Companions puppy has a unique journey. Some end in a blue service dog vest, and others, like Deb, end in a teal therapy dog vest. Now partnered with Captain Nick Watling, Therapy Dog Deb has found her perfect role at the West Licking Joint Fire District (WLFD) in Pataskala, Ohio. "Deb is definitely part of our family here at WLFD. I find myself swinging by for no reason, and I think subconsciously I just want to see her - she definitely makes me smile," says WLFD Fire Chief Jack Treinish.

Named after General Federation of Women's Clubs International Past President Deb Strahanoski, Deb has impacted many lives since the beginning of her journey. Deb was raised by a volunteer puppy raiser in the Chicago area before she began professional training at Canine Companions' North Central Training Center in New Albany, Ohio. Although working as a service dog alongside a person with a disability wasn't the right fit, Deb was designated as a good candidate for Canine Companions' Therapy Dog program. Therapy Dogs are pet dogs that accompany their owner into specific settings for the benefit of the residents or clients in that setting.

Deb's handler, Captain Watling, says her impact on Firehouse 403 - and the surrounding community - is evident. "It's common for neighbors, firefighters from other stations and visitors to stop by just to see her," he says. While each day at the WLFD looks different, the mornings begin the same way for Deb.

She starts the day near the kitchen table, greeting each firefighter as the next crew arrives. She knows the alarm will sound at 6:53 a.m. for roll call and sits patiently by the crew's feet, knowing that her breakfast isn't far away. Deb is often in the back of the medic or ladder truck as the crews complete their daily truck and equipment checks. Afterward, she may accompany the group to training events or visits to other stations.

When an emergency call is received and the station tones sound, Deb knows exactly what to do. She walks directly to her room in the fire station and waits until the crew returns.

"No matter how long we've been gone, she's always excited to greet everyone when we get back," Captain Watling says. He adds that Deb has also accompanied crews during difficult situations and critical incidents. "Her calming presence has been invaluable during those times," Captain Watling says. "Deb is exceptionally friendly with visitors and strangers, and she has become well known throughout the community."

Although Deb takes her work as a Therapy Dog very seriously, she has plenty of time to let loose with Captain Watling and his family. She comes home with him once a week to enjoy time with his two pet German Shepherds, who love to swim, chase balls and play outside. "While she is calm and professional at the station, at home she transforms into a playful Labrador," Captain Watling says. "After she's worn out, she can usually be found curled up on my wife's lap. Deb is convinced she is a lap dog, despite what her size might suggest," he adds.

Captain Watling says it takes the right dog, the right environment, and the right people for a Therapy Dog to be successful. "Fortunately, Deb has found exactly where she belongs. She has become an important part of our department, and it's hard to imagine West Licking Fire District without her. She is truly a perfect fit for our team," he says.

GFWC members can learn more about how to get involved with Canine Companions by visiting canine.org. Whether through raising a puppy, advocating for service dog rights, or fundraising, your support is crucial to our mission of empowering those with disabilities to live more independently.