In a moving and deeply impactful presentation, Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans (LCSDV) delivered an unforgettable session to the Physician Assistant (PA) class at Duquesne University, focusing on the intersection of healthcare and service dogs in veterans’ lives. The event, hosted by Assistant Professor Kristyn Lowery, provided more than just education—it delivered inspiration, insight, and a human connection to the critical role service dogs play in the recovery and independence of veterans.

Approximately 30 students gathered for this specialized presentation, which included emotional testimony, powerful storytelling, and direct engagement with the people—and service animals—changing lives every day. The speakers for the event included Tony Accamando, co-founder of LCSDV; Don Accamando, Vice President of LCSDV; and Craig Hodgkins accompanied by his Medical Service Dog, Foxy.

The response from the class was overwhelming. The students were engaged, curious, and moved by what they learned—not just about service dogs, but about their own future roles as compassionate, informed healthcare providers.

The presentation was made possible by Professor Kristyn Lowery, a respected educator in Duquesne University’s Department of Physician Assistant Studies. A Duquesne graduate herself, Professor Lowery holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (2003) and a Master of Physician Assistant degree (2004). Her professional background includes specialized work in Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio.

Professor Lowery arranged the presentation as part of her commitment to broadening the perspectives of future medical professionals, emphasizing the importance of holistic, interdisciplinary care. Her background in high-acuity clinical settings made her uniquely attuned to the life-altering potential of service dogs for individuals facing medical, psychological, and physical challenges.

Perhaps the most compelling part of the session came when Craig Hodgkins took the stage with his service dog, Foxy—a poised, intelligent Long-Haired German Shepherd who has become both a symbol and living example of what service dogs can do.

Craig, a disabled veteran, delivered a heartfelt presentation about his own journey. He spoke openly about the challenges of living with severe vertigo, mobility issues, and PTSD, and how Foxy plays a critical role in his daily life. More than a companion, Foxy is his lifeline—alerting him before physical symptoms arise, preventing falls, and helping him navigate both the physical and emotional hurdles of post-service life.

He described service dogs as “the first line of defense in healthcare,” emphasizing that these animals often respond faster than human intervention and prevent crises before they occur. He made the case that physicians, PAs, and other healthcare professionals must understand how integral service dogs are to long-term patient care and recovery.

“Foxy isn’t just a dog—she’s my doctor, my nurse, my therapist, and my best friend,” Craig told the students. “She catches things before I even feel them. That’s not a luxury—that’s survival.”

The LCSDV team also educated the class about the legal, medical, and emotional dimensions of service dog usage. Tony Accamando, co-founder of the organization, opened the discussion with a broader view of the mission behind LCSDV and how service dogs have become vital tools in the battle against veteran suicide, depression, and declining quality of life.

Tony, a veteran himself, helped establish LCSDV after witnessing firsthand how service animals restored hope to fellow service members who had all but given up. His message was clear: these dogs are medical equipment, not pets, and their importance must be understood and respected by all professionals who serve veterans and people with disabilities.

Don Accamando, Vice President of the organization, added insight into the rigorous training standards for both dogs and handlers. He explained how the selection process, pairing, and integration take months of planning and support. Students learned how important it is for medical professionals to acknowledge the service dog’s role as part of the treatment team, especially in rehabilitation, long-term care, and mental health management.

The presentation wasn’t just informative—it was emotionally powerful. Many students were visibly moved during Craig’s testimony, particularly when he described moments where Foxy had protected him from dangerous falls or awakened him from traumatic night terrors.

Students asked thoughtful, sincere questions about how to identify legitimate service animals, what to do during clinical visits with a handler-dog team, and how to advocate for patients who rely on service dogs in public and private medical settings.

Craig emphasized that while hospitals and clinics are required by law to accommodate service dogs, awareness and understanding are just as important as compliance. He urged students to view service dogs as allies in care, not obstacles or afterthoughts.

“Your patient might not always speak up. Their dog will,” Craig said. “And if you pay attention, you’ll learn more than any test or chart can tell you.”

The presentation at Duquesne University is part of a larger effort by LCSDV to bring education into academic institutions where future medical professionals are being trained. By integrating this type of training early in a student’s career, LCSDV hopes to influence systemic change—ensuring that service dogs are treated as legitimate and essential components of patient care.

Professor Lowery echoed that sentiment, stating, “We need more of this. More interaction with real people, real experiences, and real tools that go beyond the traditional medical model. I’m proud our students had this opportunity.”

The event marked a significant moment in LCSDV’s ongoing education and advocacy mission, with future presentations already being planned at other universities and healthcare training programs.

The visit to Duquesne University was not just a presentation—it was a call to action. LCSDV left the students with a deeper understanding of how service dogs enhance patient outcomes, how to properly interact with service dog teams, and how to advocate for policies that support their inclusion in all facets of healthcare.

In a field where technology and procedures often take center stage, this event reminded future providers that healing comes in many forms—and sometimes it comes on four paws.