about us
A wide-range of first responders including firefighters, paramedics, EMS, 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 suffer from mental health challenges.
First Responder Therapy Dogs leads the way in addressing the mental health needs of first responders by providing emotional support using therapy dogs. Our goal is to provide this free service to as many first responders in as many locations across the country as possible. 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 A., a firefighter in Marin County, CA
therapy dog teams across the Country
First Responder Therapy Dogs has 101 therapy dog teams serving first responders in 23 states
Our therapy dog teams are available for service in Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
Meet Winston (L), a first responder therapy dog working in Seminole County, Florida.
Please Support Us
We appreciate any level of donation that works for you. Your donations will be used to provide specific programs and to support our mission and goals. With your tax-deductible contribution, we will continue to be a powerful tool in helping first responders take to the frontline.