Crisis Response Dogs Train for Service in Naperville

Local dogs and handlers learned to navigate emergency equipment to provide mental health support for area residents.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Dogs

Bold vector illustration of a calm service dog sitting near a bright training harness, representing emergency mental health support training. — More than 12 crisis response dogs and their handlers completed specialized training in Naperville this month to support first responders. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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More than 12 crisis response dogs and their handlers completed specialized training at Naperville Fire Station No. 7 this month. The program prepares the animals to provide essential mental health support to organizations and first responders during high-stress emergency situations.

Why it matters

Local emergency management officials are building professional relationships with crisis teams to ensure seamless mental health support during potential future crises. This training helps ensure animals remain calm in the presence of sirens and heavy equipment.

The training cohort featured over 12 dogs, including Kami, a six-and-a-half-year-old Akita with four years of crisis response experience. The three-day curriculum focuses on desensitizing animals to the loud sirens and heavy machinery common at emergency sites.

The players

Naperville Fire Department

A local emergency response agency providing facility access and training support to strengthen regional mental health readiness.

HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response

An organization that trains dogs and handlers to provide mental health support for responders and survivors in schools and disaster sites.

Heather Pontius

A dedicated team leader for HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response who helps oversee the training program.

Kami

A six-and-a-half-year-old Akita with four years of professional experience in crisis response and mental health support.

The details

During the three-day session, handlers and their dogs met with firefighters to acclimate the animals to the sights and sounds of the Naperville Fire Department. By practicing around fire trucks and sirens, the teams learn how to remain composed in active, high-stress environments. This preparation allows the dogs to eventually provide emotional support services for schools, FEMA, and the Red Cross.

October 24, 2026: Crisis response dog training occurred at Fire Station No. 7.

The Home Front

This initiative follows the standard protocol set by FEMA for integrating animal-assisted support into disaster response frameworks. It marks a shift toward formalizing mental health partnerships between local emergency agencies and specialized volunteer teams.

If you are interested in animal-assisted support for your school or organization, contact local emergency management to inquire about established partnerships. Keep your family's emergency plans updated to include mental health resources available within the community.

The takeaway

These training exercises ensure that skilled animals are prepared to help neighbors and responders during the most challenging times. Families should identify which community agencies offer crisis resources so they know where to turn when support is needed.