Meet the Team
Donna Hill B.Sc., B.Ed.
Training Coach, Curriculum Designer & Service Dog Specialist
Teaching owner-trainers how to build skilled, confident service dogs through positive, science-based education.
Hi, I’m Donna Hill, founder of the Service Dog Training Institute.
For more than two decades, I have helped people with disabilities train and partner with their own owner-trained service dogs through positive reinforcement training and ethical, science-based methods. Through the Service Dog Training Institute, I provide service dog training education that teaches handlers not only what to train, but why training works, allowing them to adapt their approach to their own dog, disability, and daily life.
I began training dogs at age eight and have always been fascinated by how animals learn. After discovering that punishment was not necessary for effective training, I dedicated my career to developing kinder approaches that create willing, enthusiastic partners.
My background combines animal behaviour, education, and practical experience. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Zoology with a focus on animal behaviour, a Bachelor of Education, and am a professional member of the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers. I am also certified in Human Dog Leadership, PetSaver First Aid, and Dog Safe First Aid.
Before becoming a full-time dog training educator, I spent 15 years as a Heritage Interpreter teaching people about ecology and the natural world. I later worked as a behavioural interventionist with children with autism, developed educational programs, and led workshops for government and nonprofit organizations. These experiences shaped my ability to turn complex concepts into practical, understandable lessons.
Since founding the Service Dog Training Institute in 2015, I have supported hundreds of handlers across North America as they navigate the journey of training their own service dogs. More than 25 of my students have successfully passed the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Assessment, and my educational resources continue to help owner-trainers develop the skills and confidence needed for long-term success.
I am known for creative problem-solving and practical training solutions using everyday objects rather than expensive equipment. Whether teaching puppy foundations, task training, public access skills, or advanced concepts, my focus is on teaching the principles behind training so handlers can confidently adapt and succeed with their own unique dogs.
“The best service dog programs don’t just train dogs—they teach people. When handlers understand how dogs learn, they can confidently solve new challenges throughout their dog’s working life.”
Bruce Angus
Operations, Technology & Student Support
Bruce is the behind-the-scenes support that helps keep the Service Dog Training Institute running smoothly. From website design and technology to student support and course development, he helps make our educational resources accessible and easy to use.
A retired healthcare professional, Bruce brings decades of experience supporting people through healthcare, counselling, public presentation, and adult education. He understands that learning happens best when people feel supported and confident.
Bruce has also spent more than 35 years training and competing with dogs. He has earned multiple Master-level agility titles and holds a PetSaver Dog First Aid certification. His experience in canine sports has given him a deep appreciation for teamwork, communication, and the relationship between dogs and their handlers.
Together, Donna and Bruce share a commitment to positive, ethical training that recognizes dogs as emotionally intelligent partners.
Bruce Angus. B.Sc.
“Successful training begins with understanding the emotional needs of both ends of the leash.”
Lucy & Jessie
Our Story
Dogs have been at the centre of our lives for more than 35 years. When we bought our first home, one of our biggest priorities was creating a space where dogs could thrive. Over the years, we have shared our lives with many wonderful dogs, fostered others, and explored everything from service dog training to canine sports and everyday adventures.
Today we share our home with Clover, a Rough Collie mix who keeps us learning, laughing, and continually reminded of why we love what we do.
We created the Service Dog Training Institute because we saw a need for accessible, high-quality education that teaches people how to train their own service dogs using positive, ethical methods. Our goal is to help people with disabilities build confident, trusting partnerships with their dogs through education that is practical, science-based, and focused on lifelong success.
Together, we combine backgrounds in animal behaviour, education, healthcare, and technology to support owner-trainers around the world.
Local Coaching (Nanaimo, BC)
Donna provides limited in-person coaching in Nanaimo, British Columbia, for teams preparing for the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Assessment, as well as advanced service dog task-training.
