St. Louis veteran returns to crossing guard post with Goldendoodle service dog

James Poggi is returning to his full-time role as a school crossing guard in Mascoutah, Illinois, accompanied by a Goldendoodle named Teddy. The dog assists Poggi with physical tasks that his injuries make difficult, allowing him to maintain independence in his daily routine. Poggi’s return to work follows a period where mobility issues limited his ability to perform his duties alone.

Poggi served in the Marine Corps aviation unit before injuries from multiple accidents, hard landings, and a car crash forced him into a life of wheelchairs and walkers. He also developed spinal meningitis while still active in the military. These events led to five back surgeries and a below-the-knee amputation. Poggi described the transition from a healthy 250-pound man to a person relying on mobility devices as a shift into vulnerability.

Poggi’s wife, who serves as his caregiver, suggested he obtain a service dog to help with the emotional and physical toll of his injuries. Teddy now retrieves dropped items such as keys and cell phones and helps carry objects. Poggi noted that the dog brings joy to his life, comparing the bond to raising a child. He stated that Teddy acts like a battle buddy, always having his back.

Teddy underwent training at Dog Training Elite St. Louis, a facility that prepares dogs for service work in real-world scenarios. Matt Willis, the owner, said the training moves beyond basic obedience to include advanced therapy and protection tasks. Willis explained that the interaction with service dogs triggers chemical changes in the body that help alleviate symptoms of PTSD and physical limitations. He noted that while the government provides care, gaps remain in supporting veterans who have experienced physical and mental trauma.

A private donor grant will cover 30% of the training costs for ten veterans or active military members who need service dogs. Willis said the grant was intended specifically for service dog training for military personnel. The funds are divided to assist ten individuals, allowing them to access training that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive.

Research supports the use of service dogs for veterans. A 2024 study found that canines are associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression in veterans with PTSD. A separate 2024 survey of about 600 veterans revealed that roughly four in 10 had never used a PTSD service dog but expressed interest in having one. The Department of Veterans Affairs does not currently provide service dogs for mental health conditions and continues to study potential benefits.

Poggi will resume his full-time schedule at the crossing guard post next school year. He plans to be on the corner every day regardless of weather, with Teddy stationed in a small hut nearby. The dog’s presence allows Poggi to manage the physical demands of the job while providing the emotional support he needs to stay active.

The collaboration between Poggi and Teddy illustrates how service animals can bridge the gap between medical recovery and daily function. The training process at Dog Training Elite St. Louis focuses on preparing dogs for unpredictable public environments. This approach aims to ensure that veterans like Poggi can navigate their communities with greater confidence and support.