MISSION

First Responder Therapy Dogs address behavioral health needs by providing emotional support to first responders with the use of trained therapy dogs.

Every year, thousands of fires occur in California and the results have been catastrophic. California has a wide-range of first responders including firefighters/paramedics, dispatchers, search and rescue and law enforcement who answer the call to help and protect. California has thousands of firefighters working 365 days a year. 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. Research shows that therapy dog services positively impact this population's behavioral 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

All funds from this campaign will help to deploy our teams to major fire events that happen throughout our state.