At 4 Paws 2 Freedom, we are committed to enhancing the well-being and mental health of our first responders and supporting our community through the healing power of specially trained canines. Our Facility & Peer Support Canine Program allows us to partner with first responder agencies and legal organizations to provide emotional support where it’s needed most.
Peer Support Partners
Program Cost:
$4500-Local Agencies
$5000-Agencies 100mi outside of 4P2F area
What is a Facility & Peer Support Canine?
A Facility & Peer Support canine is a trained therapy canine that is placed with first responder agencies to provide ongoing emotional support. These canines are selected for their temperament, patience, and ability to provide comfort and companionship during times of crisis, as well as engaging the community they serve. They undergo extensive training to become proficient in the therapeutic role and are paired with first responders or agencies in need.
Our training staff can assist your agency with handler and canine selection if requested. 4 Paws 2 Freedom establishes an MOU with agency prior to training outlining responsibilities of each organization.
Teams train weekly in classroom and public access settings, including their place of work with our training staff. Training is approximately 9 months depending on the team. Once the team has completed all levels of the Facility & Peer program, which includes a 4-week handler training and 3 levels of AKC certificates, They will recertify at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and every 3-years thereafter. Our program includes lifelong support for all of our teams.
The Benefits of Facility & Peer Canines
Emotional Support: These canines provide a non-judgmental, compassionate presence that helps first responders manage stress, anxiety, and trauma. Their companionship can be especially healing after responding to particularly difficult or traumatic calls.
Reduced Stress: The calming effect of interacting with a therapy canine is scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, lower heart rate, and promote a sense of peace.
Improved Morale: Having a therapy canine in the workplace can help create a positive environment, boosting team morale and fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among first responders.
Ongoing Mental Health Support: Facility & Peer canines offer continuous emotional support, making them a valuable part of the overall well-being strategy for first responder agencies.
