Paws, presence and positive impact as therapy dogs bring cuddles to Kalgoorlie

Behind every St John WA operational uniform is a human being carrying the cumulative weight of difficult calls, long shifts and exposure to traumatic events.

And sometimes, what that human being needs most, is permission to pause.

When a major incident involving violence and aggression towards our crews took place in Kalgoorlie in early December, St John’s Psychology and Wellbeing Services (PAWS) Sarah Trozzo flew in to provide immediate on-ground support.

While there, she suggested arranging a visit from Dogs For First Responders (D41R), an affiliate organisation providing a powerful intervention that comes on four paws without expectations or judgement.

D41R’s unique service combines experienced first responders (15+ years career frontline experience) and therapy dogs to help break down barriers and open lines of communication.

Within days Angus, a five-year-old Golden Retriever, and Koda, a two-year-old Golden Retriever/German Shepherd cross, were deployed to Kalgoorlie along with their handlers, Karen “Hoppa” Hollings and Jo Ruck.

Karen and Jo are both current active paramedics with St John WA, meaning they have lived first responder experience, bolstered by also both being Wellbeing Supporters – giving them access to the resources they need to best support their peers.

The Kalgoorlie team found the D41R visit very beneficial at a difficult time. Station Manager Rachel Lamb explained how the visit was planned for late afternoon to coincide with shift change and capture as many team members as possible.

“The dogs did their job brilliantly,” she said. 

“They were the initiation for conversation that then just flowed as different people came and went through the depot.

“The guys were excited and keen to feed them treats, get them to do their tricks, have pats and photos.

“It was a nice experience after such a horrendous event that really affected everyone at the depot.”

Operations Lead Gabby Richards echoed this sentiment.

“For us the objective was to create a calming environment to reduce stress and anxiety,” she said.

“We wanted our team members directly and indirectly affected to feel safe and supported during the aftermath of the incident.”

With all feedback extremely positive, the experience provided a sense of relief and connection.  

“The visit made a lasting impact on the Kalgoorlie team,” Gabby said.