Paw Platoon Placement
Our Paw Platoon Placement program places trained therapy dogs with first responders who need emotional support, PTSD assistance, and companionship. These incredible animals make a life-changing difference.
About the Paw Platoon Placement Program
The Paw Platoon Placement program was created to address the growing mental health crisis among first responders. Therapy dogs are trained to assist with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that our heroes face after years of service on the frontline. Each dog is carefully matched with a first responder based on their specific needs and lifestyle.
Our dogs go through extensive training before placement and continue to receive support throughout their working lives. We work with certified trainers and mental health professionals to ensure each placement is successful and life-changing.
How the Program Works
Application
First responders apply for the program through our online application or by contacting our team directly.
Assessment
Our team conducts a thorough needs assessment to understand the applicant's specific requirements.
Matching
We carefully match each applicant with a therapy dog based on their needs, lifestyle, and personality.
Training
The matched pair undergoes training together to build a strong bond and ensure the dog meets the Hero Handler's needs.
Placement
The therapy dog is officially placed with the first responder, with ongoing support from our team.
In Their Words
Hear directly from the first responders who have experienced the impact of the Paw Platoon Placement Program.
"It's amazing to see the affect he has in the room. You can just feel the tension and anxiety decrease. He brings out the biggest smiles."
Mark Piacentini
Ret. Assistant Chief, Folsom Fire Department
Handler of Blitz
"Thank you for playing a major role in helping promote positive mental health for our first responders. Your organization is appreciated and the work you do is vital for us to support our staff."
Matt Alves
Public Safety Chief, Lincoln Police & Fire Departments
Handler of General Mattis
"Her presence has had a meaningful and measurable impact, helping to lower stress, encourage communication, and provide emotional grounding for first responders, victims, and community members alike."
Rick Bartee
FEMA USAR Blue Incident Support Team Leader
Retired Fire Chief, City of Roseville · Handler of Lady Liberty
Paw Platoon Placement in Action
See the real-world impact of our therapy dog program — from training and placement to the bonds that change lives.
Making a Difference
Watch on YouTube →
Paws on the Line: Healing First Responders
Watch on YouTube →
The Paws That Heal: The Story of Hearts 4 Heroes
Watch on YouTube →
More videos are added regularly. Visit our YouTube channel →
Want to see more of the Paw Platoon in action?
Check out each dog's individual page for more videos, stories, and moments with their first responder partners.
Meet Our Paw Platoon Placement Dogs
Each therapy dog is carefully matched with a first responder Hero Handler and serves their department with dedication and heart.
Blitz
Blaze
Boots
Ash
Roy
Captain Charlie
Lady Liberty
Maggie May
Ellie
Shirley Lynn
Mattis
Nova
Sutter
Emmy
Stormy
Ivy Rose
Moose
Beatrice
Cinders
Smokey
Paw Platoon Placement Program Document
Full program overview, placement details, and dog profiles — PDF
Sponsor a Paw Platoon Placement Dog
Your sponsorship helps cover the cost of training, equipment, and ongoing care for our therapy dogs. Every dollar makes a difference in the life of a first responder.
Apply or Sponsor