A wide-range of
first responders including firefighters/ paramedics, dispatchers, search and rescue and law enforcement answer the call to help and protect. Being on the frontlines can be physically and mentally challenging, and these everyday heroes often feel under-supported, overwhelmed, and under-appreciated.
First Responder Therapy Dogs leads the way in addressing behavioral health needs by providing emotional support to first responders with the use of therapy dogs. We provide this service in-the-field with a hands-on approach. Research shows that therapy dog services positively impact this population's mental health issues.
The use of therapy dogs has demonstrated the following outcomes:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Lower blood pressure and slower breathing
- Improve overall mood elevation and mental state
- Increase productivity due to better mood and mental state
"We are tasked with things that push us to our limits and having something like a dog brings some type of normalcy back into our lives. Having that comfort is absolutely therapeutic." John Aitchison, a firefighter in Marin County, CA