St. Louis Veteran: Goldendoodle Service Dog Restores Daily Independence

James Poggi, a former Marine Corps aviator, relies on a Goldendoodle named Teddy to perform daily tasks that restore his independence in St. Louis. Poggi suffered five back surgeries and a below-the-knee amputation during his active service. These injuries resulted from multiple accidents, hard landings, physical therapy mishaps, a car crash, and a case of spinal meningitis.

Poggi described the physical decline as a sharp contrast to his former state. He noted that he went from standing six feet three and weighing 250 pounds to relying on wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices. He said he became a vulnerable person he never expected to be. His wife, who also serves as his caregiver, suggested getting a service dog to help ease the emotional toll of his condition.

Teddy now functions as a daily lifeline for Poggi. The dog retrieves keys, cell phones, and other dropped items. Poggi compares the dog to a battle buddy who always has his back. He said Teddy brought back a sense of joy that is hard to replace. Poggi stated that while he loves his children deeply, Teddy holds a similar place in his life.

The pair trained at Dog Training Elite St. Louis, a facility that prepares dogs for basic obedience, advanced therapy, protection, and service work. Poggi said the training environment mimics real-world scenarios rather than relying solely on textbook exercises. He noted that the trainers prepare both the veteran and the animal for experiences they will encounter in public.

Matt Willis, the owner of the training facility, said service dogs help veterans manage physical limitations and PTSD. Willis explained that interaction with the dogs causes chemical changes in the body that provide an uplift. He said veterans often experience gaps in care from the government and the system, despite the efforts of those institutions.

A private donor recently provided a grant to help cover the cost of service dog training. The funds will assist 10 veterans or active military members. The grant pays 30% of the training costs for each selected individual. Willis said the donor specifically wanted the money to go toward veterans and military personnel. He described the donors as people who recognize the benefits these dogs provide.

Poggi is scheduled to return to his job as a school crossing guard in Mascoutah for the next school year. He said he will work full-time on the corner every day, rain or shine, with Teddy by his side. The dog will accompany him to his small crossing guard hut. Poggi plans to resume his routine with the support of his service animal.

A 2024 study found that service dogs are associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression in veterans with PTSD. Another 2024 survey of about 600 veterans revealed that roughly four in 10 had never had a PTSD service dog but would like one. The Department of Veterans Affairs does not currently provide service dogs for mental health conditions, including PTSD, and continues to study the potential benefits of such interventions.