SALUDA, S.C. () – A therapy dog is joining a local fire department to help bring companionship to the first responders after a difficult few months. 

The nonprofit K9 Responder Foundation is donating its first therapy dog, Hope, to the Saluda County Fire Service to symbolize a new chapter and be a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Hope is a Golden Retriever who was born on September 28th, 2024, just one day after Hurricane Helene hit. It was also a day when Saluda County lost two firefighters in the line of duty during the storm. 

“I think it’s going to bring some smiles back. We haven’t seen smiles for quite some time now. So, I think that she’s going to make some people a little bit happier than what they are right now,” said Mark Lybrand, Fire Service Coordinator, Saluda County Fire Service.

Hope is the first K9 to go through the foundation and is going through special training with the K9 Responder Academy and completing the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen certification. With these certifications, she will be able to help first responders and veterans with things like PTSD.

“There’s something about a dog’s heart. They’re just there to listen, you know. And people they also got different attitudes or different kind of opinions, but a dog never does. All they do is show love, and that’s what we need,” said Lybrand.

Not only will she be able to help the fire services, but she will also help the coroner’s office, victim’s advocate, and the EMS system in Saluda.

“A lot of our big ruff guys. These are the ones that hide their feelings and everything else, including myself. We toyed around with the idea for a long time, and winally decided it would be a good move. I think she’s going to be a great addition to our family here,” said Lybrand.

Trainers say Hope is calm and affectionate, which helps make her a great fit for the team, and they are all anxious to meet her.

“I’ve been tempted to drive up there and take a peek, but I haven’t done it yet. He keeps sending us pictures back and forth talking about how well she’s doing,”” said Lybrand.

Hope will be an official Saluda County Fire Services Team member on March 21st.