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We are back with another edition of The Paw Print! Read on for all the updates from the last few months about Hero Dogs programs, placements, and upcoming events. Thank you for your support of our work!
Hero Dogs facility dogs assist people in ways distinct from other types of working and service dogs. In partnership with a trained handler employed by the facility, they work full-time with staff to achieve specific treatment or program goals through animal-assisted therapy.
DC Fire and EMS aims to preserve life and promote health and safety through excellent pre-hospital treatment and transportation, fire prevention, fire suppression and rescue activities, and homeland security awareness.
Bill splits his time between his handler's office and visiting firehouses across the district. He accompanies his handler, Ronit, the Department's first Behavioral Health Coordinator, to promote the Behavioral Health Assistance Program and Peer Support Team—both of which are programs designed to support the wellness of DC's Bravest.
Bill’s most effective work is responding to potentially traumatic events after runs, calls, line of duty deaths, and mass causalities. He attends trainings and conferences, represents DC Fire and EMS at community events, and sits in on counseling sessions.
"The comfort he has provided can not be quantified, and he does it all with a wag and a bow," says Ronit. "Suffice it to say, when Bill and I visit a facility, it is Bill's name that people remember."
We are grateful to Dave Y. for raising Bill and to mPower, Inc. for sponsoring him.
Hero Dogs Howie Placed as a Facility Dog
We are proud to share a recent placement: Hero Dogs Supervisory Special Agent Howard Teten, aka Howie, has been placed as a facility dog with the Frederick Police Department's Crisis Response Team, providing emotional support to individuals in distress and assisting in de-escalating crises. Congratulations to Howie, his handler, puppy raisers, and sponsor!
Join us for the Hero Dogs Golf Tournament!
Join us for a day of fun on the fairways—whether you’re a seasoned golfer or brand new to the game! The Hero Dogs Golf Tournament on Friday, April 17th, includes tickets to an 18-hole scramble or a beginner-friendly clinic, followed by an early dinner, prizes, and a silent auction—all to benefit our programs. For more info, visit hero-dogs.org/golf.
One More Round of Applause for Our 2025 Graduates!
Thank you to everyone who attended our recent Hero Dogs Graduation ceremony and reception! We had a great time celebrating the Class of 2025 and the humans who helped them along the way.
Hero Dogs love to get together and get out in the community to explore new places! Thank you to our volunteers for attending events, for giving the dogs these training opportunities, and for representing Hero Dogs!
On November 8th, a handful of Hero Dogs and their humans attended Something Earthy Pottery Studio's Art on the Farm Holiday Show! Artists sold handmade dog bowls, treats, ornaments, and more with proceeds benefiting our programs!
Hero Dogs therapy dogs love to visit with the folks at Olney Memory Care! Hero Dogs Alyce, Bernard, and Floyd visited during November and December. Thank you to the residents and staff for all the head pats and holiday cheer!
Thank you to the Hero Dogs, including Buzz (who is pictured above) and their humans, who attended Wreaths Across America on December 13th to honor our nation's fallen heroes at this special annual event.
Support Our Work by Becoming a Monthly Donor
Every day, the lives of veterans and first responders are improved because our donors, you, choose to give—not just once, but consistently.
By becoming a monthly donor, you provide steady, reliable support that allows our work to continue without interruption. Monthly gifts help us plan ahead, respond quickly when needs arise, and ensure we continue to meet the growing needs of our clients.
A monthly gift of $21 makes a meaningful difference and guarantees you receive a 2027 Hero Dogs calendar!
Monthly giving is simple, secure, and flexible—you can change or cancel at any time. Most importantly, it means you’re standing with us every single month as part of our mission.
Would you consider joining our community of monthly supporters today? If so, please go to www.hero-dogs.org/donate.
Giving Tuesday: Thank You!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Hero Dogs on Giving Tuesday. We exceeded our goal and raised $16,960 from 69 donors! Click here for the video of Hero Dogs Tara drawing the winner of our puppy naming raffle!
Halloween Potluck
On October 21st, Hero Dogs and their humans came together for a Howloween potluck! We had a great time and loved seeing all of the creative costumes. Thank you to everyone who joined us; click here for some adorable pictures!
Four Dogs Start "College"
This past quarter, we welcomed four Hero Dogs toAdvanced Training! In October, brothers Hero Dogs Coltrane and Gunner moved in, followed by Hero Dogs Merlin. In late December, we welcomed Hero Dogs Guy. With daily professional training, these dogs are closer to finding their careers!
Puppies Atlas, Buzz & Dean
In the last edition, we announced that Hero Dogs Spirit delivered six healthy puppies in September. We are pleased to have Spirit and three of her puppies return to Hero Dogs. Hero Dogs Atlas, Buzz, and Dean are thriving at home with their puppy raisers and are learning so much!
Raise a Puppy, Save a Life.
Interested in giving back to veterans and first responders by raising a future assistance dog?
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