We’re honored to be featured in a new article on Police1.com titled “How Service and Therapy Dogs Support Officer Wellness.” The piece explores how canine companions, both service and therapy dogs, are becoming valuable tools to improve the mental health and well-being of law enforcement officers across the country.

Operation Freedom Paws’ Role

Operation Freedom Paws was highlighted for our unique approach to pairing rescued dogs with first responders and veterans. Our program empowers individuals to train their own service dogs, creating not only a functional support system but also a powerful, lasting bond. This model directly addresses post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and the unique challenges law enforcement professionals face every day.

The article includes insights from our founder, Mary Cortani, and explains how our training model helps officers regain a sense of control, confidence, and calm. Our clients often share that having a trained service dog by their side dramatically reduces feelings of isolation, hypervigilance, and emotional fatigue.

What the Article Covers

In addition to highlighting Operation Freedom Paws, the article explains:

• The difference between service dogs and therapy dogs, and how each serves officers in different ways

• How canine companions reduce stress, anxiety, and post-traumatic symptoms

• Real-world examples of dogs improving officer morale, mental health, and engagement with wellness programs

• Practical steps departments can take to implement a dog-assisted wellness initiative

• Why these programs are gaining traction across the country

Why It Matters

Law enforcement agencies are increasingly recognizing that officer wellness is essential for public safety and department performance. Service and therapy dogs are not a replacement for professional mental health care, but they are powerful allies in the healing process. These programs help reduce stigma, foster connection, and create healthier environments for those who serve.

Read the Full Article

We invite you to read the full story and share it with others in your network who care about officer wellness:

How Service and Therapy Dogs Support Officer Wellness – Read Here

We are grateful to Police1 for including Operation Freedom Paws in this important conversation and to every officer who continues to serve their community with courage and heart.