The High Point Enterprise
THOMASVILLE, N.C. — An abandoned dog that was rescued by an animal advocacy group will now be providing therapy to local fire and rescue crews in Thomasville.
The Thomasville Fire and Rescue Department announced that they have adopted a new therapy dog, named Doc, to provide comfort and support to both firefighters and the community.
Doc is a yellow Labrador retriever that has been specially trained to help firefighters, who are often exposed to intense situations and emotional strain, manage stress and recover from traumatic events.
“Having Doc as part of our team will help ease the mental burden that comes with these challenges,” said Thomasville Fire Chief Jason Myers. “Whether it’s offering companionship during difficult times or providing a much-needed distraction from overwhelming emotions, Doc is here to serve as a source of relief for our first responders and the people we serve.”
Doc, his mother, and eight other siblings were rescued by Forgotten, Now Family Rescue after they were abandoned. Doc and his handler were trained at K9 Responder Academy in Indian Trail.
“Doc’s name is appropriate because he has gone from being a discarded animal to a healer in the lives of others,” Myers said.
Therapy dogs like Doc reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing oxytocin, the hormone linked to relaxation and emotional bonding. Firefighters, in particular, deal with high levels of stress in their daily work, and Doc will be there to help them decompress after difficult calls or long shifts, according to the Thomasville Fire Department.
He will also be used to assist firefighters and victims during traumatic events, providing a sense of safety and emotional support in times of distress.
The Thomasville Fire Department said it plans for Doc to provide services to other departments in the city of Thomasville, as well as neighboring fire, police and EMS agencies. He will also assist firefighters with educational programs and other community outreach programs.
“His companionship is just one more way we’re committed to providing holistic care to our team and those we serve,” Myers said.
The Lexington Fire Department acquired a therapy dog, a red retriever named Luna, in August. She was named in honor Cpt. Ronnie Metcalf, a 19-year-veteran of the Lexington Fire Department who died in a house fire in March. Metcalf’s nickname was Moon Pie.
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