Columbia Fire & Rescue Welcomes Service Dog
To help firefighters cope with the intense stress, trauma, and emotional toll of emergency response, Columbia Fire & Rescue has introduced a new mental health resource: a trained peer support service dog. Darby, a gentle and affectionate Goldendoodle, will be stationed at Fire Station 3 and serve as a source of comfort and emotional support for first responders as they process the daily realities of their high-stress work.
Every day, firefighters are exposed to devastating scenes—tragic accidents, loss of life, and moments of unimaginable grief. Over time, these experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression. Firefighter Deja Dixon recognized the need for proactive mental health support and led the effort to bring Darby to the department.
"Darby brings a sense of calm that you can feel the moment she walks into the room," said Dixon. "We deal with things that most people never see. Having her at the station gives us a source of peace and support during the toughest moments."
Peer support service dogs like Darby are specially trained to provide comfort after traumatic calls, help reduce anxiety, and assist first responders in processing the emotional weight of their job. Her presence offers day-to-day support in ways traditional tools sometimes cannot.
"Darby is more than a station companion—she's an important part of our department's mental wellness strategy," said Columbia Fire Chief Chris Cummins. "She's already made an impact, and we're proud to have her as part of the Columbia Fire & Rescue family."
A growing body of research supports the use of service dogs in trauma recovery. A recent National Institutes of Health-supported study found that service dogs significantly reduced PTSD symptoms and improved emotional well-being in individuals exposed to high-stress environments.
"Supporting our first responders means taking care of their mental health, too," said City Manager Tony Massey. "Darby is a meaningful addition to that effort, and we're proud to have her as part of the team."
Darby will remain based at Station 3, always ready to lend a calming presence to the team that serves Columbia with courage and compassion.
