Hurricane Katrina
In 2005, LCC president Tim Hetzner was working with the relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina, helping people who had lost pets. It gave Hetzner the idea to use dogs to soothe people in crisis. The organization started its K 9 comfort initiative in August 2008, with four dogs. Hetzner says they now have 130 dogs in 23 states. Hetzner believes that Goldens have something special when it comes to canine healing arts and has chosen the breed, all AKC registered, for his program. He especially likes their calming aura. We call them a comfort rug with a heartbeat, he says. Goldens are great listeners, they show unconditional love, they are confidential, they do not take notes, they are nonjudgmental. On top of that, they are versatile, able to function in all kinds of situations, with people ranging from young children to elderly Alzheimers patients. They can master many skills, and will work for multiple handlers. Their quick minds and background as gundogs allow them to concentrate in the face of distractions encountered at disaster sites sirens, shouting, even with guns or other loud noises in the background.