Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs Provides First-Ever Crisis Care Canine

Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs Provides First-Ever Crisis Care Canine to Naples Police Department; Max will Assist in Comforting Children and Adult Victims

Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs, a Naples-based non-profit organization with a mission that promotes independence for combat wounded veterans, first responders and children with life-changing disabilities through partnerships with skilled assistance dogs, is proud to announce that it has donated its first-ever dog trained specifically for crisis care to the Naples Police Department.

The 2-year-old Golden Retriever, named Max, will be handled by Master Officer Jeffrey Perry and will assist in comforting children and adults in crisis situations. The Naples Police Department recently reactivated its K-9 Unit and Max was officially turned over to the department during a special “Hand-Off” Ceremony held on April 4that the Ken & Susan Meyer Center for Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs.

“Max, with his boundless enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, has completed his training here with flying colors and he now embarks on a noble mission to serve the City of Naples alongside his new partner,” said Kyle Reed, Board Chair for Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs. “Together, they will form an inseparable team offering comfort, solace and support to those who find themselves in need.”

Funded through a generous sponsorship, Max represents the first dog trained specifically to work in crisis care under Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs’ newest initiative, the Crisis Care Canine Program. Designed to provide vital support and assistance during critical incidents, this program aims to enhance the organization’s capacity to aid individuals and communities facing trauma and crisis.

Founded in 2012, Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs has trained and provided dozens of highly skilled service dogs in the local community, always at no cost to those they serve. Puppies begin their training the moment they arrive at the training academy at 8 weeks old. Housing, health and nutritional care, and training continue for a minimum of two years before successful match and placement.

The Crisis Care Canine Program represents a significant expansion of Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs’ commitment to serving individuals and communities in times of crisis. By harnessing the unique bond between humans and dogs, the organization aims to provide invaluable support, comfort and companionship to those facing the most challenging of circumstances.

The Crisis Care Canine Program integrates specially trained assistance dogs into Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Peer Support Teams in the community. These dogs are placed to Law Enforcement Officers and EMS personnel who hold and/or handle incident control positions.

These highly skilled canines serve as invaluable companions and sources of comfort, contributing to the well-being of both adults and children navigating traumatic experiences. Dogs work alongside their CISM teammates in comforting victims of trauma, assisting in forensic interviews with children, comforting families in times of loss and grief, calming individuals in crisis and through community partnerships.

Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes independence for combat wounded veterans, first responders and children with life-changing disabilities through partnerships with skilled assistance dogs.

To learn how you can support Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs’ mission or for additional information, please visit www.GoldenPAWS.org or call 239-775-1660.