Did you know San Bernardino County Fire has a K-9 Support Dog Program?
Over the past year San Bernardino County Fire has developed the K9 Support dog program. The program’s goals are part of a crisis response and mental health therapy program to improve behavioral wellness in San Bernardino County Fire members. Members may suffer from the impacts of long shifts, difficult incidents, and other on or off duty stressors. The dogs are a tool to aid employees with these issues. This is just one way San Bernardino is taking a proactive approach to better the health and well being of our department and communities we serve.
Our dogs also are available to provide the same support for community members. The dogs also participate in special presentations, community events or official ceremonies and provide public education. The dog teams also can assist neighboring agencies with their support needs.
“Increasing mental health awareness and supporting our employees is paramount. The K9 Support Program is just one way we are aiming to help. Besides the support to our internal customer, we look forward to assisting our partner agencies and citizens in their time of need.” According to Assistant Chief Jeff Birchfield who oversees the program.
The team trains twice each month, aiming to increase the effectiveness of the dog teams. The program has been made possible with a partnership with Working Dogs for Warriors. Their organization has been paramount to start the program & aids with ongoing training.
Handlers & Dogs
- Engineer BJ Myers & K9 Scout
- Battalion Chief Mark Bixler & K9 Baxter
- Captain Paul Kramer & K9 Cooper
- Engineer Steven Story & K9 Bailey
- Engineer Brent Cannon & K9 Remi
- Program Administrator – Assistant Chief Jeff Birchfield
