The Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs (DPS-OJP) provides funding to support law enforcement agencies and fire departments to acquire, train, and maintain therapy dogs to aid in treating peace officers and firefighters suffering from job-related trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder and to assist in responding to calls involving persons in crisis.  

Dog therapy programs for first responders are gaining recognition as vital tools for enhancing mental health, resilience, and community relations. The integration of therapy dogs into law enforcement agencies and fire departments provide:
  

1. Comfort and Resilience: First responders often face high-stress situations, leading to increased rates of mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Studies and initiatives, such as those highlighted by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Mental Health America, show that interactions with dogs can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase oxytocin levels, which help improve mood and reduce anxiety. 
2. Support for Law Enforcement: Police departments are increasingly adopting therapy dog programs to support officer wellness. Programs like those in the Woodbury Police Department and Pinole Police Department have introduced therapy dogs to provide emotional support during and after traumatic incidents, enhancing officers' ability to cope with the demands of their work. The IACP's research underscores the role of dogs in building resilience among officers, making them better equipped to handle stress. 
3. Community and Victim Support: Therapy dogs also play a crucial role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community. They are used to comfort crime victims, reduce the trauma experienced during investigations, and foster positive community relations. For example, the FBI's Therapy Dog Program and various police department initiatives demonstrate how therapy dogs help in calming crime victims and improving their interaction with law enforcement. 
4. Positive Public Perception: The presence of therapy dogs can significantly improve the public's perception of the police. As seen in cases like the introduction of Otis, a therapy dog in Woodbury, these programs not only support officers and victims but also enhance community trust and engagement, which are crucial for successful law enforcement. 

Agencies that received funding: 
 

Bloomington Police Department

Cottage Grove Police Department

Crystal Police Department

Fridley Police Department

Minnetonka Police Department

Moorhead Police Department

Richfield Police Department

Sartell Police Department

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