Paw Platoon Placement
Our Paw Platoon Placement program places trained therapy dogs with first responders who need emotional support, PTSD assistance, and companionship. These incredible animals make a life-changing difference.
About the Paw Platoon Placement Program
The Paw Platoon Placement program was created to address the growing mental health crisis among first responders. Therapy dogs are trained to assist with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that our heroes face after years of service on the frontline. Each dog is carefully matched with a first responder based on their specific needs and lifestyle.
Our dogs go through extensive training before placement and continue to receive support throughout their working lives. We work with certified trainers and mental health professionals to ensure each placement is successful and life-changing.
How the Program Works
Application
First responders apply for the program through our online application or by contacting our team directly.
Assessment
Our team conducts a thorough needs assessment to understand the applicant's specific requirements.
Matching
We carefully match each applicant with a therapy dog based on their needs, lifestyle, and personality.
Training
The matched pair undergoes training together to build a strong bond and ensure the dog meets the Hero Handler's needs.
Placement
The therapy dog is officially placed with the first responder, with ongoing support from our team.
In Their Words
Hear directly from the first responders who have experienced the impact of the Paw Platoon Placement Program.
"Blitz has become an integral part of our peer support team. After difficult incidents, firefighters who would never seek help on their own will sit with Blitz and open up. He has changed the culture of our department."
Mark Piacentini
Ret. Assistant Chief, Folsom Fire Department
Handler of Blitz
"Mattis has become one of the most popular members of the team. Both Police and Fire staff regularly ask for Mattis to spend time with their units."
Matt Alves
Public Safety Chief, Lincoln Police & Fire Departments
Handler of General Mattis
"Hearts for Heroes delivers far more than trained dogs — they deliver trust, preparedness, and a tangible commitment to the mental health and resilience of those who serve."
Rick Bartee
FEMA USAR Blue Incident Support Team Leader
Retired Fire Chief, City of Roseville · Handler of Lady Liberty
Paw Platoon Placement in Action
See the real-world impact of our therapy dog program — from training and placement to the bonds that change lives.
Making a Difference
Watch on YouTube →
Paws on the Line: Healing First Responders
Watch on YouTube →
The Paws That Heal: The Story of Hearts 4 Heroes
Watch on YouTube →
More videos are added regularly. Visit our YouTube channel →
Want to see more of the Paw Platoon in action?
Check out each dog's individual page for more videos, stories, and moments with their first responder partners.
Meet Our Paw Platoon Placement Dogs
Each therapy dog is carefully matched with a first responder Hero Handler and serves their department with dedication and heart.
Blitz
Blaze
Boots
Ash
Roy
Captain Charlie
Lady Liberty
Maggie May
Ellie
Shirley Lynn
Mattis
Nova
Sutter
Emmy
Stormy
Ivy Rose
Moose
Beatrice
Cinders
Smokey
Paw Platoon Placement Program Document
Full program overview, placement details, and dog profiles — PDF
Sponsor a Paw Platoon Placement Dog
Your sponsorship helps cover the cost of training, equipment, and ongoing care for our therapy dogs. Every dollar makes a difference in the life of a first responder.
Apply or Sponsor