How Ruby Dawn Helps Build Resilience Among First Responders

Meet Ruby Dawn—our certified AKC Canine Good Citizen and full-time therapy dog whose official “Gotcha Day” is June 3rd. Ruby lives at the 9-1-1 center 24/7, greeting shifts, offering quiet company, and reminding everyone to breathe between the hardest moments.

Why a Therapy Dog at a 9-1-1 Center?

Therapy animals are known to lower stress, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. In a headset-intense environment, those small physiological shifts matter. Ruby is a friendly, grounding presence—especially after critical calls—helping dispatchers reset quickly so they can return to the console ready to serve.

“Sometimes a minute with Ruby is all it takes to steady your voice for the next caller.” — Dispatcher

A Day in Ruby’s Life

• Morning morale rounds; quiet time with overnight staff

• Short enrichment walks; rest near consoles (as appropriate)

• Mid-shift meet-and-greets; decompression visits after difficult calls

• Evening check-ins as shifts change and new teams arrive
  

What Your Support Provides

• Care & Health: Food, vet visits, preventatives, medications, grooming.

• Training & Standards: Maintenance of CGC-level behavior and refreshers.

• Program Essentials: Bedding, cleaning supplies, toys, treats, and durable gear.

• Enrichment & Rest: The routine that keeps Ruby healthy and effective.
  

Join Ruby’s Renegades

Community members and businesses who support Ruby’s daily impact are recognized as Ruby’s Renegades. Renegades help keep this program strong—and keep tails wagging and spirits lifted.