By Emma Duckworth
At DogFit, we often talk about the powerful benefits of Canicross — for both mind and body, human and dog. For Emma Duckworth, it’s been nothing short of life-changing. From serving in the British Army to battling PTSD, Emma’s journey has been shaped by resilience, courage, and the incredible bond with her dog Miyah.
This is her story — a story of healing, hope, and finding your people (and your paws).
Life in the Forces
Emma joined the Army at 18, starting out in the Royal Artillery, operating armored vehicles that looked like tanks but fired from stationary positions. It was a tough, male-dominated role — but she loved the discipline, the structure, and the chance to travel.
After four years, she transferred to the Queen Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps to gain a more transferable skill, working as a healthcare assistant. But despite the career shift, her mental health began to suffer — the result of incidents during her time in the artillery that had never been fully addressed.
“I had all these plans. I wanted to make a full career in the Army like my family had. Suddenly I was back home, isolated, and struggling to find my place.”
Enter Miyah: A Soul Dog with a Story of Her Own
Scrolling through Facebook one day, Emma saw a post that stopped her in her tracks. A husky-German shepherd cross with soulful eyes named Maya was looking for a home. Abused by a previous owner and left in kennels, Miyah had already been through more than most dogs.
“I just knew. Those eyes. It was like fate.”
Today, Miyah has been with Emma for over four years — and even has her face tattooed on Emma’s leg.
“She’s my soul dog. She saved me. I saved her. And she’s helped me through everything.”
Discovering Canicross
Emma’s athletic background meant she was always drawn to sports, but after leaving the Army, she needed something different — something healing. One day, she came across a photo of someone running with their dog. She found a local Canicross group — and her world began to open up.
“I didn’t really know what I was doing at first. But the group were so friendly and supportive.”
Running Together, Healing Together
For Emma, Canicross isn’t about chasing personal bests. It’s about connection — with Miyah, with herself, and with others.
“When I’m running with Miyah, I feel safe. She’s like my little bodyguard. And I don’t feel alone anymore.”
She’s built a tribe of like-minded runners — complete with team shirts and mutual encouragement — all brought together by their dogs.
From Canicross to Marathons
Emma has completed multiple Canicross races — from 5Ks to muddy trail challenges. She’s now training for the Manchester Marathon in April, raising funds for The Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a charity supporting retired police and military dogs.
“On my tough days, she’s my motivation.”
“Any Dog Can Canicross”
Emma’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to be an elite athlete — or have a particular type of dog — to get started.
“It doesn’t matter what breed your dog is. They just love being part of it.”
For Anyone Who’s Struggling…
To anyone unsure or struggling with their mental health, Emma has this message:
“Just take that first step. Get out the door. Run with your dog. You don’t need to be fast. You just need to start.”
Thank You, Emma (and Maya)
Emma, thank you for sharing your journey so openly. Your courage, honesty, and love for Miyah shine through in everything you do. You’ve inspired more people than you know.
And to anyone reading this who’s thinking of giving Canicross a go… take a leaf out of Emma and Miyah’s book. You might just find your tribe — and your soul dog — along the way.
You can follow Emma and Miyah’s progress on their Instagram: @miyahthehusky1
To sponsor Emma at the Manchester Marathon helping raise money for The Thin Blue Paw Foundation please visit her Just Giving page
🔗 We also mention another episode about Strength & Conditioning for Canicrossers and you can find that video here
