Crisis Response Team

The Crisis Response Team came to fruition after the Washoe Drive Fire in 2012 and is made up of experienced dog-handler teams who have volunteered to respond to fires, floods, death and any other significant emotional events which has the potential to adversely affect a school and/or our community.  We are most frequently called upon by the Washoe County School District in times of grief.  During a school crisis in 2013, we spent 2 weeks providing support. In 2021, our teams provided support during the Dixie Fire and Caldor Fire.

Our Crisis teams were recognized by the Washoe County School District Board of Trustees in 2013 for our work with school counselors to help staff and the children impacted by tragedy and the benefits of our teams to help open up conversation and healing. Our Crisis teams have helped provide a better understanding of the value of pet therapy.

“Dogs are man’s best friend and bring us unconditional love. There’s nothing better than a wagging tail and the comfort that a happy dog brings to us all. As a lifetime public servant in Nevada, I have had the benefit of seeing first-hand the incredible service that Paws4Love brings to our community. The volunteers and dogs of Paws4Love bring us emotional support, peace and comfort during the most trying of times.  Thank you Paws4Love for making us proud of the place we live and making Nevada a better place.”

Former Governor Brian Sandoval

Paws 4 Love visits the Regional Dispatch and Emergency Operations Center each month for stress relief.

Several Paws 4 Love teams were invited to visit Mayor Hillary Schieve after the death of her father.

“Dogs always find new ways to challenge and inspire us. They greet us with unwavering love on our toughest days. They make the simplest of moments sweeter. These warm fuzzy faces enrich our lives and bring irrepressible joy with every playful bark, wag of the tail, or nudge of a tennis ball. I can’t imagine life without Paws 4 Love being a vital part of healing here in Reno.”
Hillary Schieve
Reno Mayor

Paws 4 Love teams went to visit students and staff after the death of a teacher at Billinghurst Middle School.