Goldendoodle helps St. Louis vet return to crossing guard post

James Poggi is returning to his job as a school crossing guard in Mascoutah, Illinois, accompanied by his service dog.

The Marine Corps veteran, who worked in aviation, faces a list of injuries that include five back surgeries and a below-the-knee amputation. These issues stem from multiple accidents, hard landings, physical therapy mishaps, a car crash, and a case of spinal meningitis. Poggi described the shift from being a 250-pound, six-foot-three soldier to relying on wheelchairs and walkers as a change that made him feel vulnerable.

Poggi’s wife, who serves as his caregiver, suggested he acquire a service dog to help with the emotional toll of his injuries. The family chose Teddy, a Goldendoodle who now acts as Poggi’s daily lifeline. Poggi compared the dog to a battle buddy, noting that Teddy is always there to have his back. The dog handles physical tasks such as retrieving keys, a cell phone, and other dropped items, which allows Poggi to regain a sense of independence.

Teddy also provides emotional support that Poggi described as bringing back joy. He said his love for the dog is comparable to the love he has for his children. Matt Willis, owner of Dog Training Elite St. Louis, where Poggi and Teddy trained, explained that dogs cause chemical changes in the body that provide an uplift for veterans. Willis noted that while the government and VA system attempt to care for veterans, there are gaps in the care provided for those dealing with physical, emotional, and mental trauma.

A 2024 study linked service dogs to lower rates of anxiety and depression in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Willis said the training facility prepares dogs for real-world scenarios rather than just book learning. A private donor grant will help cover 30 percent of the training costs for 10 veterans or active military members in need. Willis stated that the grant was specifically designated for service dog training for military personnel.

Poggi said Teddy will be with him every day as he resumes his full-time role at the corner in Mascoutah next school year. The dog will accompany him in the crossing guard hut, rain or shine. A 2024 survey of approximately 600 veterans found that about four in 10 had never had a PTSD service dog but would like one. The VA currently does not provide service dogs for mental health conditions, including PTSD, and is still studying the potential benefits of such interventions.

The partnership between Poggi and Teddy illustrates a growing use of canines to support veterans in daily life. The dog handles specific retrieval tasks that assist with Poggi’s mobility limitations. This arrangement supports his return to the workforce and his personal well-being.