The Calming Influence Of ZORA The Service-Trained Therapy Dog Proven Effective

First responders face unique challenges on the frontlines, it is essential that therapeutic treatments are specifically tailored to address their distinct experiences. At Frontline Behavioral Wellness, they prioritize therapies that have been proven effective for these heroes. In this interview I dive into K9 Zora’s role at Frontline Behavioral Wellness and her calm life.

SIR VALENTINO: Zora can you tell me a little bit about your typical day and your team. 

ZORA: As a service-trained therapy dog for Frontline Behavioral Wellness, I've been trained to  detect high levels of cortisol for first responder clients with PTSD, my job involves providing emotional support and comfort to individuals experiencing stress or anxiety. I use my keen sense of smell to detect changes in their cortisol levels, alerting them to potential triggers and helping them manage their emotions. By being a constant source of companionship and reassurance, I aid in reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm in my clients. 

SIR VALENTINO: How do you see benefit from a doggie lifestyle of today? How do you envision it in the future? 

ZORA: While I, as a service dog, don't have a personal lifestyle in the typical sense, I do see benefits in the advancements in pet care and products that improve the well-being of all dogs. In the future, I envision even more tailored services and products to enhance dogs' lives, including advanced health monitoring technologies, personalized nutrition plans, and innovative training methods to support our overall health and happiness. 

ZORA’s professional picture for Frontline Behavioral Wellness

SIR VALENTINO: What activities do you engage in to relax and/or vacation? 

ZORA: Throughout the day, I relax by engaging in short naps, training sessions, eating snacks, and enjoying gentle pets from my handler and the clients at the treatment center where I work. I also enjoy playing with my favorite toys during breaks. I especially love my squeaky toys and bones.  

SIR VALENTINO: What family and breed trait do you use the most to get away with things, or to make your job easier? 

Zora: I use my intelligence and loyalty as a Belgian Malinois to get away with things and make my job easier. My keen problem-solving skills help me navigate tasks effectively.

SIR VALENTINO: What are your favorite pet lifestyle brands and why? 

ZORA: As a service dog, I don't have personal preferences for pet lifestyle brands. However, reputable brands known for their quality, durability, comfort, and safety features in products such as harnesses, vests, and grooming tools are generally well-regarded among service dogs and their handlers. 

SIR VALENTINO:  Do you have any beauty tips, that have worked for you, you can pass along to other dogs? Maybe what hasn’t worked. 

ZORA: Beauty tip for fellow service dogs - regular grooming sessions to keep my coat shiny and healthy, and maintaining good hygiene by keeping my paws clean and nails trimmed. 

SIR VALENTINO: How do you see your role with Fronltline Bahavioral Wellness in the future? 

ZORA: As a therapy dog for Frontline Behavioral Wellness, I see my role expanding to provide even more personalized support and comfort to individuals in need. I envision being involved in various therapeutic activities, including individual sessions, group therapy, and community outreach programs to help promote emotional well-being and healing. My presence will continue to offer a calming influence and aid in reducing stress and anxiety for those seeking support from Frontline Behavioral Wellness. 

K9 Zora’s at Frontline Behavioral Wellness.

SIR VALENTINO:  What organizations do you support and why? 

ZORA: Working Dogs for Warriors!! , they are perfectly aligned with our mission.


SIR VALENTINO:  What questions do you get asked a lot and what questions do you love and hate getting? 

ZORA: I frequently get asked questions about my age, breed, training, and job responsibilities. I love getting questions that allow me to showcase my skills and intelligence. I don't particularly enjoy repetitive questions about basic dog behaviors or questions that undermine my capabilities as a service dog. 

Zora at the Working Dogs For Warriors annual walk for suicide prevention..

SIR VALENTINO:  What certifications are needed and how do you stay prepared for your job? 

ZORA: I had to pass all the CGC tests. I had to train many hours and during the week and weekends.

Zora with client

SIR VALENTINO:  What is your favorite part of your home and why? 

ZORA: My favorite part of our home is the cozy corner where I relax with my 9-year-old Dachshund big brother named Zodiac. I love snuggling up with him, playing together, and just enjoying each other's company in our special space. He's the best but sometimes I'm a little too clingy and annoy him.