Comfort Dogs Arrive In Las Vegas For Emotional Support And Cuddles

After the shooting in Las Vegas on Sunday night that killed 59, people everywhere are doing their part to remind us that there’s still good in the world. From the heroes who literally saved lives on the scene to those who have donated blood to celebrities who have given money, it’s inspiring to see so many acts of kindness during such a dark time.

Well, humans aren’t the only ones who have provided comfort in the wake of this terrible tragedy. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are a pack of golden retrievers affiliated with Lutheran Church Charities, a nonprofit based in Northbrook, Illinois.

The organization offers their service completely free of charge. “We try to put boots and paws on the ground within 24 hours of any invites,” Tim Hetzner, the president of Lutheran Church Charities who founded the K-9 program in 2008, told the Huffington Post.

Shortly after the shooting, the dogs were flown to Las Vegas to provide comfort to those who are grieving. In addition to disaster situations, these specially-trained therapy dogs also interact with people in churches, schools, nursing homes and hospitals in 23 states.

By the morning of Oct. 3, there were 19 comfort dogs in the city there to offer their particular brand of furry comfort.

They were deployed to the Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center, where the majority of those injured in the tragedy are being treated, as well as to schools and police stations.

“Dogs show unconditional love,” Hetzner explained. “They’re good listeners, they’re confidential, they don’t take notes.”

The canine companions have offered their soothing presence to those affected by the tragedy in a number of ways, from those who are grappling with the loss of loved ones and issues like survivors’ guilt to those who are dealing with potentially life-altering injuries.

We’re so glad these fluffy heroes were able to offer support during such a difficult time.