Agenda Item Name:
Title
Introduction of Fire Rescue Employee-Rory
End
Presenter:
Harold Theus, Chief 352-384-3101
Description:
Introduction of Fire Rescue's fully trained Peer Support K-9
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Hear the Presentation
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Prior Board Motions:
N/A
Fiscal Consideration:
Fiscal Consideration
N/A
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Strategic Guide:
Strategic Guide
N/A
End
Background:
In March of 2023, personnel from Alachua County Fire Rescue traveled to Miami, Florida where they attended a three-day K-9 Assisted Peer Support Workshop. Attendees learned about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the First Responder K-9 Programs. They became certified in K-9 first aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Positive Based K-9 Training Skills, and Boulder Crest "Struggle Well" emotional wellness program. The attendees also learned about Miami-Dade's Station K-9 and Peer Support K-9 Programs.
After returning from the workshop and because of our attendance, our Department was made aware that a fully trained K-9 had unexpectedly become available in our area. K-9 for Warriors was offering the opportunity to adopt a fully certified American Kennel Club (AKC) Therapy Dog at no cost to the County. After consultation with Risk Management and the County Manager's Office, Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR) accepted ownership of Rory on March 30, 2023. Rory (ACFR ID #23-065) will be utilized as a Station K-9 and has been assigned to Firefighter Paramedic Sarah Weed.
Rory is a 2-year-old Yellow Labrador Retriever that is fully trained as a K-9 Station and Peer Support Therapy Dog.
The department has developed policies and procedures regarding the K-9 program. Mental Health concerns are a serious problem for First Responders and providing effective tools to mitigate the effects of stress is of utmost importance. Animal assisted crisis response has been acknowledged to be an effective tool in environments where stress or isolation is a concern....
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