Service Dog’s Name: Harper
Service Type: Veteran and First Responder
Area/Branch: US Coast Guard and Paramedic
“Harper provides comfort and allows me to recenter and ground with her. She brings calm and peace to an otherwise chaotic mind.”
I served in the US Coast Guard for 8.5 years and as a paramedic for 30+ years. I was paired with Harper in January 2023. One of the most significant ways she has changed my life is helping me with anxiety. When my anxiety begins to elevate, she intercedes. She sits directly in front of me and just stares at me until I ask the question, “What are you trying to tell me?” Then, she provides comfort and allows me to recenter and ground with her. She brings calm and peace to an otherwise chaotic mind. She is simply a calming presence, not just for me, but for others as well.
With Harper at my side, I’ve been able to attend large events with many people and actually enjoy them. I’ve always done these things but rarely enjoyed them because, before Harper, I was always “on guard.” A day doesn’t go by that I’m not just amazed at what my partner can do for me.
