In October 2019, the Kendall County Sheriff’s Department implemented a crisis intervention and mental health program adding a mental health officer, Deputy Michelle Quade. To supplement that program, Sheriff Al Auxier introduced a Peer Support program this year bringing in K9 Renee.
On Meg Grier’s Boerne Radio show on November 27, Sheriff Auxier and Deputy Quade were her guests. Her weekly broadcast is entitled, “God and Our Dogs”, presenting the message that “we can rely on God like our dogs rely on us”.
Because of the trauma and experiences first responders face on a daily basis, “it takes a toll on their psyche and well being”, according to Sheriff Auxier. He is passionate about the new program and Deputy Quade cited examples of how K9 Renee, as a facility dog, served and supported the staff as well as the Kendall County community in her daily work.
Sheriff Auxier and Deputy Quade will ensure that the new concept of a facility dog is successful and the program can be adopted by communities in other counties. https://www.godandourdogs.com.