Sublimity Fire Comfort K9 Program
Supporting Emotional Wellness for First Responders
The Comfort K-9 program at Sublimity Fire District is dedicated to supporting the psychological and emotional well-being of firefighters, first responders, emergency dispatch personnel, law enforcement agencies, and fire district personnel through specially trained therapy dogs. Probie and Barney, the district’s Comfort K-9s, exemplify the dedication, training, and compassion required for this vital role. As one of the most active first responder therapy dog teams in Oregon, they provide essential comfort and support during and after traumatic events, fostering resilience and promoting first responder health and wellness throughout the State of Oregon.
Firefighter Amber Cross, started the program here at Sublimity in 2019 after seeing the affect that a particularly difficult fire incident had on the district volunteers and first responders from other agencies that were involved with the call. The goal was to provide a therapeutic resource for them to help cope and process. To give them another tool for their toolbox, a resource that first responders can use both proactively and reactively. Probie made his debut on a large-scale incident at the 2020 Beachie Creek fire, supporting local first responders in the Santiam Canyon area in rural Marion County Oregon.
In August of 2023, Probie was officially sworn in as a member of Sublimity Fire District, and his younger brother Barney was officially sworn in on March 6th, 2025, in a private ceremony.
Probie and Barney are proud members of the First Responder Therapy Dog Organization, a California-based initiative committed to improving the mental health of first responders. There are currently teams in 46 states and that number continues to grow year-to-year.
Firefighters and first responders face immense mental and physical challenges while on the front lines.
Research consistently highlights the remarkable benefits of interacting with therapy dogs during or after traumatic incidents. Comfort K-9s help alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and PTSD, offering proven health benefits such as:
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Improved mental health, including elevated mood and mental clarity.
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Physical health benefits, such as lowered blood pressure and improved cardiovascular function.
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Emotional resilience, fostering a sense of connection and safety during times of crisis.
The Comfort K-9 Program is more than a service—it’s a lifeline for those who dedicate their lives to helping others. With Probie and Barney lending a supportive paw and many slobbery kisses, Sublimity Fire District continues to make a significant impact on first responders' health and wellness throughout Oregon.
First responder and emergency dispatch organizations interested in connecting with and benefiting from our Comfort K9 program can contact Sublimity Fire Chief Alan Hume.
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To tag along on Probie & Barney’s adventures – follow us on Instagram: @probie_the_firedog
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More information on First Responder Therapy Dog Organization:
For general information | Info@firstrespondertherapydogs.org 415-250-8107
First Responder Therapy Dogs, INC 2100 4th Street #C153, San Rafael, CA 94901
First Responder Therapy Dogs, INC is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit. Tax ID #88-1386472.
News & Media
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