Service dog Phil joins Port Coquitlam fire department

Port Coquitlam Fire and Emergency Services has formally welcomed Phil as a working member of its Occupational Stress Intervention Service Dog Program.

Funded by Wounded Warriors Canada and trained by BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, Phil will support firefighters after traumatic calls. He will also attend council meetings and community wellness activities involving firefighters.

Mayor Brad West said firefighters can carry the effects of difficult calls long after they end, and described the program as a direct support resource. Fire Chief Blake Clarkson said it gives members a way to pause, decompress and reset.

BC & Alberta Guide Dogs says Phil was specifically bred, raised and trained to remain calm, respond to stress and assist trauma-exposed professionals in workplace settings.