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What is the CARE Team?
The Crisis Assistance and Response Enhancement (CARE) Team is a pioneering program by Custom Canines Service Dog Academy, providing rapid response and continued support to communities experiencing crisis.
Our highly trained service dogs and dedicated volunteers deploy in the wake of natural disasters, active shooter incidents, first responder debriefings, and other traumatic events to provide critical support. By partnering with emergency services, hospitals, schools, and mental health organizations, the CARE Team ensures communities in crisis receive immediate relief and ongoing recovery assistance.
Our mission is to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and readiness, equipping our teams with specialized training in trauma-informed care, crisis response, and mental health first aid. Through this unparalleled level of expertise and preparedness, the CARE Team stands as a trusted resource in times of need.
How Service Dogs Assist in Crisis Response
Service dogs play a vital role in crisis response and recovery, providing stabilizing support in high-stress situations. Scientific research shows that service dogs can help regulate stress responses by reducing cortisol (a primary stress hormone) and promoting a more balanced state.
Our CARE Team service dogs are trained to:
✅ Recognize and Respond to Crisis Situations – Detect signs of stress, panic, and distress
✅ Provide Stabilizing Techniques – Utilize deep pressure therapy and grounding methods
✅ Interrupt Panic Episodes – Assist before overwhelming stress escalates
✅ Support First Responders and Survivors – Work alongside crisis teams to enhance operational effectiveness
✅ Aid in High-Stress Environments – Help maintain focus and stability during debriefings and recovery efforts
These service dogs are not pets—they are highly trained responders, specifically prepared to assist first responders, survivors, and entire communities during and after crises.
Why Early Intervention Matters
In the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event, delayed intervention can lead to long-term stress-related conditions such as PTSD or chronic anxiety. Early response helps mitigate the impact of trauma and supports a faster recovery.
By deploying trained service dog teams as soon as possible, the CARE Team:
✅ Interrupts the acute stress response to prevent prolonged distress
✅ Stabilizes individuals and communities to promote resilience
✅ Assists first responders and crisis management teams with critical support
✅ Encourages structured recovery efforts to improve long-term outcomes
Service dogs act as immediate anchors, ensuring that crisis teams and affected communities have the stability and support necessary to navigate difficult situations effectively.
Additionally, the CARE Team is fully integrated with Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) programs, offering structured assistance in crisis response efforts. This collaborative approach ensures that communities receive effective, organized, and reliable support when they need it most.
How to Request Assistance
If your community or organization needs support from the CARE Team, we are ready to assist in:
✔️ Natural disasters
✔️ Community-wide traumatic events
✔️ First responder debriefings
✔️ Crisis intervention for schools, workplaces, and organizations
Contact Us:
📧 care@customcanines.org
📞 844-888-8850 ext. 3
When reaching out, please provide:
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The nature of the crisis (e.g., disaster, traumatic event, first responder support)
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Location, date, and time of the event
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Specific needs and type of support required
Our team will quickly assess the request, coordinate deployment, and ensure our trained teams are ready to provide effective assistance. No community should face crisis alone—we are here to help.
How to Support the CARE Team
The CARE Team is 100% funded through donations, sponsorships, and grants—and your support helps us train, equip, and deploy these lifesaving teams.
Ways to Make a Difference:
💙 Donate – Every contribution supports training, equipment, and operational costs
🐕 Sponsor a Service Dog or Team – Provide direct funding to deploy service dog teams
📢 Spread Awareness – Share our mission with your community to increase our impact
🏢 Corporate Partnerships & Grants – Help expand our reach through sponsorships and funding opportunities
Your generosity ensures that we can continue providing critical support to communities in crisis.