Local nonprofits lead hands-on K9 trauma care classes

Published on April 20, 2026

The goal of the event was to bring together responders from various agencies across the region and out of state. Organizers brought in a certified specialist to teach the various handlers what to do in the case of an emergency if their dog were to get injured out in the field. The event saw various handlers from a variety of departments such as police, combat medics, EMTs, and even Air Force team members.

K9 Handler Jason Harris spoke about the importance of knowing how to care for a dog experiencing a field injury. He said he was glad to help with the event, and enjoyed the opportunity to work with other agencies. He said he wants them to be aware of who they are at Four Rivers, but that more than anything they wanted to share the information.

“It’s very valid in today’s world that canines are an asset in multiple departments,” Harris said. “And understanding the dynamics of their care in an emergency situation, how to stabilize them, how to maintain them, [so] that you can get to a proper vet.”