Uniting to Train Therapy Dogs for Firefighters, Police, and First Responders Facing PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety
The First Responders Foundation is proud to announce a powerful new partnership with Big Dog Ranch Rescue, one of the nation’s leading dog-rescue organizations. Together, we’re launching a mission-driven program that connects rescued dogs with the heroes who put everything on the line for their communities.
This collaboration brings together two organizations with a shared purpose:
to save dogs in need — and to support the men and women who respond to our emergencies every day.
Why This Partnership Matters
Across the country, firefighters, police officers, and other first responders are facing increasing levels of PTSD, operational stress, depression, and anxiety. The mental load of the job is heavy — and too often carried in silence.
Therapy dogs have proven to be a powerful tool in breaking that cycle.
These dogs provide:
- Emotional support during high-stress periods
- Calming presence after traumatic calls
- Connection, grounding, and stability
- Support for crews experiencing burnout or compassion fatigue
By partnering with Big Dog Ranch Rescue, we’re able to rescue dogs from shelters, give them a second chance, and train them into companions who can make a life-changing difference for first responders.
What This Partnership Includes
🔹 Dog Rescue & Intake — BDRR identifies dogs with strong potential for therapy, comfort, and emotional-support roles.
🔹 Specialized Training — Selected dogs enter a structured training program, preparing them to work in stations, at home, and during critical stress recovery.
🔹 Handler Support — First responders receive guidance and resources for bonding, working with, and integrating their therapy dog into their daily life.
🔹 Placement at No Cost — Through donor support and community partnerships, these dogs will be placed with qualifying first responders free of charge.
This partnership allows us to scale our mission more effectively than ever, ensuring more departments and individuals receive the support they need.
Serving Those Who Serve Us
This collaboration is more than a program — it’s a commitment.
A commitment to first responder wellness.
A commitment to rescuing dogs who deserve a second chance.
A commitment to building stronger, healthier communities by supporting the people who sacrifice the most.
Firefighters, police officers, dispatchers, EMS personnel, and corrections officers carry invisible wounds. Our partnership with Big Dog Ranch Rescue helps bring hope, healing, and connection to those who need it most.
What’s Next
Over the coming months, we’ll:
- Share updates as new dogs enter training
- Highlight first responders matched with therapy dogs
- Post behind-the-scenes progress photos and stories
- Announce volunteer opportunities and partnership events
We are excited for this journey — and grateful for the support of Big Dog Ranch Rescue as we work together to make a measurable impact.
Join the Mission
If you’d like to support this initiative, volunteer, or donate toward training and placement costs, we invite you to get involved.
👉 Contact us or follow our updates to see the incredible work ahead.
Together, we’re saving lives on both ends of the leash — one partnership, one dog, and one first responder at a time.
