How Specially Trained Dogs Support Health Care Staff in Times of Stress and Trauma

Following critical incidents, the emotional impact on health care staff can be profound. The Crisis Response Canines is a nationally recognized organization offering a unique kind of support—dogs specially trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) who can sense and respond to individuals experiencing acute stress. These visits are made possible through Inspira's Workplace Violence Prevention (WPV) program.
 

Unlike traditional therapy dogs, Crisis Canines are trained to identify the person in a group holding the most stress and instinctively “post” beside them. This silent signal helps the WPV team prioritize care and follow-up support for those most affected.
 

President & CEO Amy Mansue recently visited with the WPV and clinical teams to see firsthand how this program works across our network—in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
 

As Emergency Department nurse Liz Gibson shares, these canines offer quiet, nonjudgmental presence—providing grounding, comfort, and a moment of peace in the chaos. They remind our staff that it’s okay to receive support, helping to prevent the buildup of secondary trauma and burnout. In a profession that rarely slows down, their presence can be lifesaving.