K9 First Responders / K9FR

K9 First Responders Inc is a team of psychological trauma first responders who provide aid and comfort to those impacted by disaster, catastrophe, or violence. Founded in 2012 after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the organization utilizes specially trained dog teams to offer emotional support and promote the healing process. Their teams are trained in Psychological First Aid (PFA), Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), and other psychosocial support techniques to establish effective helping relationships with impacted individuals. Their use of dogs encourages and promotes connection and engagement, increasing receptiveness to further help.