The Alvarado Fire Department has introduced a new therapy dog, Roscoe, to help support the mental health of its first responders. Roscoe, a goldendoodle, is the personal dog of firefighter Amy Garay and has been trained and certified to provide comfort and companionship to firefighters and EMS professionals.

Mental Health Support

According to Alvarado Fire Department Chief John Rodgers, first responders often face intense workplace stress and pressure, and canines like Roscoe can help lift spirits and supplement other resources, such as counseling. Rodgers explained that everyone has a different capacity for mental health, and that canines like Roscoe can help provide a remedy when that capacity is exceeded.

Garay shared a personal story of a difficult case that took an emotional toll on her, and how the human-animal connection has been something she found healing. She explained that dogs like Roscoe can help firefighters open up and talk about their feelings, which can be difficult for them to do with a therapist.

Firefighter Doug Johnson also praised Roscoe, saying he is a calming presence and fun to have around. There are plans to expand Roscoe’s responsibilities and share him with other first responders in the county.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.