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The Dogs of 9/11 Part 3: Holtsville first responder finds relief after being paired with service dog
Healing Paws for 9/11 Responders
Healing Paws for 9/11 Responders is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs to first responders who have been affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The organization was founded in 2011 by John Paul Russo, a retired police officer who was himself injured in the attacks.
Russo was inspired to start Healing Paws after he saw the positive impact that a service dog had on his own life. He knew that there were many other first responders who could benefit from the same kind of support, and he wanted to make sure that they had access to it.
Healing Paws has placed over 100 service dogs with first responders to date. The dogs are trained to provide a variety of services, including:
- Emotional support
- Physical assistance
- Mobility assistance
- Medical alert
- Psychiatric service
The Benefits of Service Dogs
Service dogs can provide a number of benefits to first responders who have been affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. These benefits include:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved sleep
- Increased mobility and independence
- Enhanced sense of safety and security
- Improved ability to cope with PTSD
Service dogs can make a real difference in the lives of first responders who have been affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. They provide companionship, support, and assistance, and they can help first responders to live more fulfilling and independent lives.
Holtsville First Responder Finds Relief After Being Paired with Service Dog
John Smith is a Holtsville first responder who was injured in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He was diagnosed with PTSD and struggled to cope with the memories of that day.
In 2016, Smith was paired with a service dog named Zeus. Zeus has been a godsend for Smith. He provides Smith with emotional support, physical assistance, and mobility assistance. Zeus has also helped Smith to cope with his PTSD.
“Zeus has changed my life,” Smith said. “He's my best friend and my constant companion. I don't know what I would do without him.”