Meet Roger, the Labrador Trained to Bring Comfort to Firefighters and the Community
The Santa Monica Fire Department this week launched a new initiative to support firefighter and community mental health: its K-9 Peer Support Program, featuring its first four-legged team member, Roger, a certified support dog.
Roger, an English Labrador trained in providing comfort and emotional support, will work alongside a designated peer support handler to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being among firefighters, city employees, and members of the public. His duties will include visiting fire stations, attending critical incident debriefings, and engaging with community members at public events.
“We are thrilled to introduce this program as a proactive step in supporting the mental wellness of our firefighters and city employees,” said Santa Monica Fire Chief Matthew Hallock. “The presence of a therapy dog has been proven to lower stress levels, improve morale, and encourage open conversations about mental health.”
The K-9 Peer Support Program is part of SMFD’s broader effort to address the emotional toll faced by first responders who regularly encounter high-stress and traumatic situations. By incorporating therapy dog services into their wellness strategy, the department hopes to create a more supportive and resilient work environment.
Santa Monica joins a growing number of Southern California public safety agencies using K-9 therapy programs to enhance mental health resources for their personnel. Nearby participants include Redondo Beach Fire, Orange County Fire Authority, Huntington Beach Fire, Westminster Police, Newport Beach Fire, and Torrance Fire.
The program received support from city staff, mental health professionals, and community partners. SMFD officials say the initiative aligns with national best practices for first responders’ mental wellness and reflects their ongoing commitment to exploring innovative support services for staff.
Roger will be a visible and comforting presence in the department and the community, symbolizing a shift toward more comprehensive mental health care in public safety.
