Pawsitive support: Lower Mainland first responders, health-care workers find support in therapy dogs

The City of Port Coquitlam Fire Department says it will soon be bringing in a new member who is being specially hired to enhance the mental health of its hard-working staff.

But the new employee isn’t a therapist or counsellor.

The fire department is partnering with BC and Alberta Guide Dogs to introduce a facility support-dog program, the city says, with a specially-trained canine being adopted to help staff after critical incidents, during emergencies, and in community settings.

“Port Coquitlam firefighters respond to some of the most difficult and emotional situations imaginable,” said Mayor Brad West.

“Our firefighters are there for us on our worst days, and this program ensures that support goes both ways. By investing in their mental health and wellbeing, we are not only helping those who serve but also strengthening the resilience of our entire community.”

According to the city, the dog is one of more than 20 pooches the guide dog organization is currently training.

Health-care workers find comfort and support in therapy dogs

Carey McBeth says she witnessed the profound impact therapy dogs can have while volunteering with BC Pets and Friends during the pandemic, when she visited cancer patients with her pet golden retrievers in Vancouver General Hospital’s critical care unit.

McBeth went on to found Hero Dawgs Pet Therapy Society, which focuses on providing therapy dogs to support health-care workers — not patients.

She says she saw firsthand how dogs can lower stress and change the emotional tone of hospital units, witnessing workers express cathartic relief when dealing with the furry friends.

“We’ve had people who didn’t even know that they were having a bad day, and then the dogs come along,” she said

“They’ve broken down, because the dog is just that silent support that is there, and they have such an incredible sense of how we are feeling.”

McBeth says the dogs also promote inclusivity in the workplace.

“People who might not have spoken to each other regularly will converse around the dogs.”

Hero Dawgs is a non-profit organization that is not government-funded. McBeth says it is supported by corporations and groups that pay for wellness visits.

She gives the example of providing support to members of the Ridge Meadows RCMP as they were dealing with the death of one of their own.

“We had the honour to go to the detachment and to be there for all of the members,” she said.

“That was incredible to see again, providing that silent support to those when they need it the most.”

PoCo firefighters to swear in their professional pooch

The City of Port Coquitlam says its initiative was made possible through a grant intended to support proactive approaches to mental health and wellness.

Fire Chief Blake Clarkson says firefighters face unique challenges in their daily work, making the dog a welcome addition for the team.

“This is about caring for the people who care for others,” Clarkson said. “This program provides another tool to help them process those experiences in a healthy and supportive way.”

The fire department plans to greet the support dog in a fitting way, with a swearing-in ceremony to welcome it as a valuable member of the team.