At K9s For Warriors, we see the healing power dogs have on our Veterans every day. As part of our mission, we extend that support to first responders: law enforcement officers, firefighters, dispatchers and those who are repeatedly exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty. The Station Dog program was born out of a need to bring emotional support to those on the front lines.
The jobs these first responders do can take a toll on their mental health. Being at the scene of a devastating fire, deadly crash or answering a 9-1-1 call from a distressed victim can be emotionally taxing.
What are Station Dogs?
Station Dogs ease emotional stress common in high-stress public service positions. They are made up of retired Service Dogs or dogs that have received extensive training from our professional trainers but were not quite cut out to be Service Dogs. These dogs are still extraordinary and able to do great work for others. The dogs “work” at their assigned station by being available for employees to interact with when they are feeling stressed, overwhelmed or simply need a friend. Every K9s For Warriors Station Dog is certified as a therapy dog by the American Kennel Club. They are trained to provide emotional support to officers, deputies, firefighters, dispatchers and even victims.
“I can tell you firsthand, the struggles that law enforcement and first responders face are significant,” said Greg Wells, Director of the Station Dog Program at K9s For Warriors.
In April, The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office welcomed a rescue dog named Eugene as its Station Dog. The shepherd-husky mix helps the staff by providing comfort and emotional support for the work they do, which can be stressful and often graphic. This medical examiner’s office processed the lives lost in the tragic Uvalde mass shooting in 2023.
“The cost is immense. You take it home with you every day.”
Wells is an Army Veteran and former law enforcement officer who served at local and federal agencies. He is also a graduate of K9s For Warriors. Wells says it’s evident how the culture shifts at a station once they welcome a Station Dog from K9s For Warriors.
“Maggie’s mere presence at the office makes a world of difference,” said Major Donald Flynn from the Florida Highway Patrol Auxiliary, where Maggie has worked since January of 2024.
“Maggie’s full-time job is to be comforting to anyone who walks in our door.”
K9s For Warriors also provided a Station Dog to the Surfside Police Department. This police force responded after a 12-story condo building collapsed in 2021. Local authorities say 98 people lost their lives. Station Dog Mike has brought smiles to the staff who worked on that tragic case.
“Officer Mike has been an incredible addition to the town of Surfside and the Surfside Police Department,” said Antonio Marciante at Surfside Police. “After the horrific condominium collapse of June 24, 2021, our town desperately needed comfort and support that Mike has provided.”
Station Dogs are a great enhancement to different types of agencies. To request more information about receiving a Station Dog, please fill out the form on the Station Dog page on www.K9sForWarriors.org.
Currently, K9s For Warriors has placed 67 Station Dogs at various stations across the United States.
