top of page
Brown hound in field

Services & Info

Founder & Head trainer, Jessica, has years of experience and expertise to offer you a variety of services.

Success is in the details

Jess + Brandy outside
About Jess

Founder | Head trainer

Jessica Tuomela is a four-time Paralympian who approaches dog training with the same passion, dedication and patience that she applies to elite sport. Growing up in northern Ontario, Jessica has never been without a dog in her life since the age of six; when her parents got her a yellow Labrador who became not only her best friend, but taught her so much about joy, love and mutual respect.

In 2002 Jessica was matched with her first working guide dog, a small black Labrador who had a larger stubborn streak and a zest for life bigger than even Jessica’s. Since that first working relationship, Jessica has had the privilege of working with three more guide dogs; including her newest partner, Brandy: a German Shepherd mix rescued from a high-kill shelter.

Jessica’s passion for everything dogs extends far beyond a wet nose and wagging tail. In 2016, after a long-term volunteer experience in a Northern Michigan prison with a guide dog raising program, Jessica graduated from the University of Southern California with her masters in social work. This achievement, along with many other life experiences, gave her the opportunity to work at Homewood Ravensview; a mental health and addictions treatment centre.

It is through the combined passions for dogs and humans that True North Canine was born. It is Jessica’s sincerest hope that through the unstoppable power of a dog, people’s lives and consequently their communities, will be enriched.

Human Remains Detection Certification
Scent Discriminate Handler Training
Susan Garrett's Recallers Program

Services 

Hound outside in woods

Scent Trailing

If a loved one has been lost or they are high risk, we can help you locate them & provide you peace of mind.

Border Collie Smiling

Canicross

Whether it's for your own health, your dog's, or both - this is a great bonding experience. With a variety of packages, you and your dog will be training, bonding, and loving your time together!

Dog and kid outside

Animal Assisted Psychotherapy

Our dogs meet specific criteria and are joined by Jessica to guide and support you through your journey. AAPT can benefit many different folks and living conditions.

Looking for a scent preservation kit?

bottom of page