At Presidio of Monterey Fire Station 1 in California, firefighters are used to answering difficult calls, working long shifts, and carrying the emotional weight that comes with emergency response. But in September 2024, the station received a different kind of visitor: King, a seven-year-old German shepherd certified as a First Responder Therapy Dog.
King visited the fire station with volunteer handler Kelly Nguyen as part of an effort to support firefighters’ mental health and morale. The visit gave first responders a chance to pause, reset, and connect with a calm, affectionate dog trained to bring comfort in stressful environments.
A Much-Needed Break for Firefighters
Firefighters face physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding work. Long shifts, traumatic calls, and high-pressure emergencies can take a toll over time.
Deputy Fire Chief Travis Wondrash arranged King’s visit after researching ways a therapy dog could support his team. During the visit, firefighters gathered around King, petting him, laughing, and taking a few quiet moments away from the stress of the job.
King made his rounds through the station, greeting firefighters and performing simple tricks like “shake” and “lay down.” For the firefighters, the visit offered more than a cute distraction. It created a relaxed environment where team members could decompress and connect.
Why Therapy Dogs Matter for First Responders
First responders are often trained to stay composed under pressure, but that does not mean the stress disappears. Therapy dogs can provide emotional support without requiring people to explain what they are feeling.
King’s handler, Kelly Nguyen, said therapy dog visits can help reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. For firefighters who may be reluctant to talk openly about difficult calls, spending time with a dog can offer comfort without words.
King was especially well suited for the role. A rescue dog, he went through desensitization training and certification to become a First Responder Therapy Dog. According to Nguyen, King gets excited when he sees the fire station because he knows he is there to work.
A K9 With a Mission
King’s work is different from that of a search-and-rescue dog or police K9, but his mission is still deeply connected to public safety. By supporting the mental health of firefighters, King helps care for the people who care for the community.
Firefighters respond to emergencies when others are having their worst day. A dog like King gives them a chance to recover, even briefly, between calls.
Image Credit: Jennifer Leggett / U.S. Army
Supporting the Heroes Behind the Uniform
The timing of King’s visit was meaningful. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Wondrash noted that mental health conversations in the fire service are important.
He said having a dog around helps firefighters relax and “take the edge off.” That simple statement captures why first responder therapy dogs are becoming more valued across emergency services.
Programs like these remind firefighters that their well-being matters. They also help build camaraderie, resilience, and readiness within the station.
A California K9 Story Worth Sharing
King may not wear a badge or carry firefighting gear, but his role is heroic in its own way. His presence helps ease stress, lift spirits, and support the emotional strength of those who protect others.
In a profession where toughness is often expected, King offers something equally powerful: comfort.
His visit to Presidio of Monterey Fire Station 1 is a reminder that first responders need support too—and sometimes that support comes with four paws, a wagging tail, and a heart ready to serve.
Image Credits: Jennifer Leggett / U.S. Army
