First Responders Foundation JAVELAN Program Graduates Service Dog and Recipient

The First Responders Foundation (https://firstrespondersomaha.org/) recently graduated a service dog, Moose, and his new owner and retired firefighter, Mike, from their JAVELAN program, which funds training dogs as service dogs and pairs them with first responders and veterans. The program is unique in that the Foundation employs rescue dogs whenever possible, and the recipient assists with training the dog, which reduces the cost and creates an instant and long-lasting bond between the two. The total cost to train a team is $3,000 and takes an average of three to six months to complete. Mike and Moose were led through their training by Russ Dillon of Dillon’s Dog Training.

The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all first responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work, and enhance public safety. Other programming includes the First Responders Support Team (FRST), which supports the mental and emotional needs of first responders and their families, the First Responders Fitness Program, the Home Safety Program, providing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, the Awards of Excellence honoring graduating seniors of first responders, and programs supporting Officers on 4 Legs, K9’s and Mounted Patrol. For more information or to make a donation to the JAVELAN program, visit firstrespondersomaha.org/javelin or email contact@firstresondersomaha.org.