Meet Katja!

Katja is a Chocolate Labrador Retriever who loves cuddles, walks in the dog park, and her dog sisters. In October 2023, after two years of dedicated training in the owner-trained program through Aspen Service Dogs, an Alberta Government Qualified Service Dog Organization, Katja successfully completed her final assessment and earned her facility dog vest. This achievement marked a milestone as she became the first library facility dog in Alberta! Since then, she has diligently applied her training to serve the Red Deer community.

Facility Service Dogs are hard-working and adaptable canines suitable for various settings, including courthouses, child protection centers, schools, and more. These dogs, under the guidance of trained on-site handlers, undergo basic obedience training and are equipped with specific commands tailored to the needs of the respective organization.

Katja has already been a part of so many different library programs, including:

• Sit, Stay, Read with Katja: Young readers in grade 1-5 can practice their reading in the presence of an accepting, non-judgmental animal companion.
• School Visits: Katja loves visiting schools, meeting students, and taking part in storytimes!
• Reducing Exam Anxiety: Team Katja has visited high schools in Red Deer during exam time to help reduce exam anxiety and promote RDPL's programs and collections for teens.
• Emotional Support: In partnership with Wellspring Alberta, Katja provides friendly company and emotional support to program participants during the Red Deer Cancer Connect sessions that take place at the Dawe Branch of RDPL.
• Special Events: For dog lovers who simply want to meet Katja and engage in playtime, we host special events throughout the year for all ages where Katja makes special appearances.
• More to come! We are excited to offer a full suite of outreach opportunities to schools and organizations! See below for the application form to request a visit from Team Katja.