Round Rock’s newest recruit might be small, furry and full of energy, but her mission is anything but playful.
Tasked with providing comfort and emotional support to the City of Round Rock’s firefighters, Ivy the therapy dog is among the newest additions to the Round Rock Fire Department. Standing out from the other department members in her red vest and curly tail, the bronze-shaded Goldendoodle has brought a calming presence to her new colleagues.
Ivy is the product of a partnership between RRFD and California-based Hearts4HeroesUSA, a nonprofit founded by first responders to support the needs of other first responders.
Firefighting is an inherently high-stress profession, and both the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Fire Administration have recognized the significant mental health challenges faced by firefighters through programming and policies.
“Firefighters can be exposed to a significant amount of trauma on a daily basis,” said Ivy’s handler, Round Rock Fire Department Driver Jody Virgne, who is assigned to the department’s Training Division. “Our department is almost 200 people and the whole county is growing exponentially, so there’s such a demand placed on our firefighters. If a tool as simple as a dog can be a benefit, I think it’s worthwhile.”
Before joining the department in March, Ivy completed the puppy version of the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, which includes training in temperament, handling, grooming, leash skills and basic commands. She also trains daily and lives with her handlers, Virgne and her husband Ricky Virgne, who also serves as a firefighter for Round Rock. While the community may see Ivy out and about as she goes about her duties, her main mission is to support the firefighters who respond to the community’s emergencies.
“She’s been well-received,” noted Ricky Virgne. “Obviously, a puppy is loved by almost everybody. She has been melting the hearts of many of our members.”
For more information on Hearts4HeroesUSA, visit hearts4heroesusa.org.
