Fire Department in San Diego, California Welcomes New Therapy Dog on First Day of Job

Annie the English Labrador is making waves as the newest member of the Lakeside Fire Protection District in San Diego, California. This five-year-old pup has been hired as part of the department’s mental health program, aimed at helping firefighters manage stress and recover from the challenges of their job.

From her first day on the job, Annie has been a ray of sunshine at the fire station, greeting employees with tail wags and smiles. Her playful demeanor and love for fetch and snuggles have quickly endeared her to the team. Annie is not alone in her role, as she is joined by other station and therapy dogs, but she is the first to take on the job full time.

The heartwarming story of Annie’s first day at work was captured on TikTok and quickly went viral, garnering over 1.4 million views and hundreds of comments. Viewers were charmed by Annie’s enthusiasm and joked about her potential to micromanage the firefighters.

As Annie settles into her role, the Lakeside Fire Protection District is hopeful that her success will pave the way for more canine hires in the future. With her AKC certification and training from Guide Dogs of the Desert, Annie is well-equipped to provide much-needed support and companionship to the hardworking firefighters.

If you have a furry friend who brightens your day, consider sharing their story with Newsweek for a chance to be featured as the “Pet of the Week.” In a world full of challenges, Annie’s presence at the fire station serves as a reminder of the power of animals to bring joy and comfort in times of need.