The three-year-old cocker spaniel has been certified by the American Fire Service as an Oscar Kilo 9 wellness and trauma support dog.
It’s critical that we support our employees in having more candid conversations about mental health, particularly for those who work in operations and often respond to traumatic situations. In order for us to successfully assist people as required, Olive will work to establish a peaceful atmosphere where people feel more at ease and free to speak.
Rob Porter is the Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s assistant chief fire officer.
Olive visits the wellness Team of the Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service while sporting her official “OK 9” wellness jacket.
She may now be asked to spend time with employees who have just finished a challenging task or who are experiencing stress or trauma.Dogs have been shown to help decrease blood pressure and increase levels of serotonin and oxytocin in humans. They are sensitive to a range of emotions and may distinguish between stress and worry.
Olive is a natural; she’s sweet-natured and enjoys attention. She had a difficult upbringing, but she will definitely succeed in her new field. The welfare team at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service will be proud of Mark and Olive.
