First responders face challenges few can imagine. The constant exposure to trauma, high-pressure situations, and the unrelenting demands of their roles take a significant toll on their mental health. That’s where K9s for Freedom, founded by Janeen Baggette, comes in—a nonprofit on a mission to revolutionize how we support our nation’s heroes during critical incidents.
The Critical Role of K9s in Mental Health
These aren’t just dogs with a friendly demeanor. K9s for Freedom trains critical incident response dogs that are highly specialized to provide emotional relief and mental health support in ways few humans or tools can. By detecting stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, these dogs can identify and comfort first responders who need it most.
Janeen’s approach goes beyond offering comfort. Her dogs are rigorously trained to handle chaotic environments, providing calm in the storm while creating a bridge for first responders to process stress in a healthy, constructive way.
Why This Mission Matters
Mental health isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about survival. Law enforcement and emergency services are facing a retention crisis, driven by burnout and unaddressed stress. By prioritizing mental health through programs like K9s for Freedom, agencies can show their personnel they matter, improving morale, retention, and the overall well-being of the heroes who serve.
“Supporting first responders with trained K9s is about more than reducing stress—it’s about saving lives,” Janeen shared during her interview.
Janeen’s Lifelong Dedication
As a combat veteran and retired federal law enforcement officer, Janeen understands the unique pressures first responders face. Her mission is deeply personal, and her expertise has transformed countless lives. Her work with K9s for Freedom and her for-profit venture, K9 Peak Performance, ensures that mental health remains a priority for those on the front lines.
How You Can Support This Mission
If you’re part of an agency or a first responder looking to introduce K9 support, reach out to Janeen and her team to learn how these programs can benefit your organization.
📍 Learn more at K9s for Freedom
📧 Contact: info@k9sforfreedom.org
A National Need
In a time when first responders are stretched thin, the work of K9s for Freedom is more important than ever. These dogs don’t just help reduce stress—they restore hope, rebuild trust, and create a path to healthier, stronger first responder teams.
🎧 Listen to the full episode on the Dr. Virga Podcast.
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