MEET OUR DOGS

At Infinite Abilities Assistance Dogs (IAAD), the theme for our 2024 dog cohort is centered around the letter “N” — a symbolic choice representing New Beginnings. This naming convention reflects the spirit of growth, transformation, and hope that each of our dogs brings into the lives of the individuals they will one day serve. Every name was carefully chosen to evoke strength, guidance, and possibility, aligning with IAAD’s mission to empower people with disabilities through life-changing partnerships.

Each name carries a deeper meaning. Nova, a celestial burst of light, symbolizes a brilliant new chapter and the spark of potential in every partnership. Navi, meaning “to navigate,” reflects the guiding role our dogs play, offering both direction and emotional grounding. North stands for the North Star — a steady light in darkness, leading the way home. Nessie, playful and strong, represents the quiet mystery and power of resilience. Nori, rooted in nature and meaning “belief” or “law” in various cultures speaks to trust and structure.

Nakona was inspired by two beloved dogs from our volunteers, both cherished companions who have since passed. The name carries a deep-rooted connection between past and future, honoring the enduring love and legacy these dogs leave behind. It’s a tribute to the bond our dogs share with us—timeless, powerful, and always carried forward.

Together, these names reflect the heart of IAAD: building a future guided by trust, purpose, and the promise of a new beginning as a foundation for IAAD.

2025 was a year of growth, with IAAD welcoming our ‘favourite TV Character’ team of pups - all named by our volunteers (Avery, Blu, Sheldon and Phoebe) as well as our very first IAAD litter - Canadian Wildlife litter (Badger, Raven, Martin, Otter, Griz and Polar).

Our puppy training program is purpose-driven, laying a strong foundation for IAAD’s future and mission.

As IAAD’s puppy program evolves, we are committed to building a solid breeding foundation. Our puppies are loving, motivated, and driven—ready to support their future person with heart and dedication.

Current Puppies in Training

Nova

A Labrador Retriever, Nova was born in February 2024. She is an active pup with a continual drive for anything she comes across, eager to please her person. She’s stealthy in build and energetic. She is fantastic with recall and loose leash walking. She is a brand new IAAD momma, bringing 6 incredible puppies into the IAAD family and is currently working on getting back into shape for her next adventure.
Navi

Navi, a Labrador Retriever born in February 2024, is North's playful sister. With a heart of gold and a bold, blonde coat, she loves running through fields and has excellent recall. Navi is currently working on loose leash walking and duration.
Nori

A Labrador Retriever, Nori was born in August 2024. Nori and Nakona are siblings. Nori is a sweet girl that loves to join her trainer for a good cross-country ski. Her loose leash walking and recall are fantastic and she’s currently one of our advanced Training pups, refining her skills with her trainer.
Nakona

A Labrador Retriever, Nakona was born in August 2024 and he and his sister Nori came to IAAD as a Halloween ‘treat’. Nakona is energetic and really enjoys cuddles. He sits and lays down very well and is a perfect gentleman waiting for his food. He’s currently working with the CBSA to determine a fit as a detection pup! We’re so excited to see where his journey takes him..
North

A Labrador Retriever, North was born in February 2024. Navi and North are siblings. She is an active pup, excited to greet every human she sees with a friendly nudge. Her favourite pastime includes curling up for a nap and cuddling! She’s currently in advanced training working on her Alert skills.
Avery

Avery is the first of our 2025 IAAD puppies having joined us in June. She is a working Golden Retriever, Labrador X and is the calmest of our crew. Her favourite past time is traveling to Disney with her people and bringing joy to the waiting folks in line for the rides! She is working on building her confidence with new and exciting experiences!
Sheldon

Little Sheldon is part of our sibling group that joined IAAD in July of 2025. He is a Black Labrador Retriever, born and raised in Calgary. He is spunky, eager to learn and loves his play time with his siblings after training.
Blu

Blu is part of our sibling group that joined IAAD in July. He is a Black Labrador Retriever, born and raised in Calgary. He is an old soul that enjoys watching the activity around him with calm cool collection.
Phoebe

Phoebe and her brothers are part of the sibling group that joined IAAD in July. She’s a Black Labrador Retriever being trained in the Okanagan. She loves the water and swimming with her trainer and she’s always on her best behaviour at social events.
Archie

Archie is our first little Spaniel to join our IAAD family this fall. He is quick and confident and enjoys attending sports activities with his trainer. His small stature is sure to grow to be a huge help to his person in the future.
Rosie

Rosie is our little fall addition, Labrador Retriever that joined us from PADS. She is currently being trained in BC and her favourite past time is watching the Riders win the cup with her trainer.
Polar

From IAAD’s very first first litter of labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Polar is the youngest of the pack. He’s full of energy and loves his trainers. He’s currently working on leash walking, house training and manners.
Raven

From IAAD’s very first first litter of Labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Raven is a spunky brindle girl. She’s always on the go and ready for action. Raven is currently working on her leash walking, house training and manners.
Martin

From IAAD’s very first first litter of labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Martin is eager to please and excited for his training sessions. He’s currently working on leash walking, house training and manners.
Griz

From IAAD’s very first first litter of labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Griz is the biggest and loudest of the pack! He’s loving his training and currently working on leash walking, house training and manners.
Otter

From IAAD’s very first first litter of labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Otter is a sweet little girl who loves to cuddle and is currently working on leash walking, house training and manners.
Badger

From IAAD’s very first first litter of labradors - named after Canadian Wildlife, Badger is the oldest of the pack. He’s a calm and steady man, working hard at leash walking, house training and manners.