D’ARCY’S ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE
Meet CARE PACK - Canine Assisted Response to Emergency
The K9 Academy, Presented by Optimus Gear, will teach dog parents a few new tricks with lessons in behaviour, training, health, and safety to keep both humans and pups happy.
For the latest tips on doggy wellness, visit the K9 Academy at the Main Stage in the BarkFest Market inside Red River Exhibition Place for presentations by Optimus Gear and Ready & Fit K9s.
Imagine the lights, sirens, and confusion of an emergency — and in the middle of it all, a little paw, a wagging tail, and a quiet moment of connection.
That is the heart behind CARE PACK.
CARE PACK is a Manitoba-based nonprofit bringing operationally prepared therapy dog and handler teams alongside emergency services to provide emotional support and comfort during some of life’s most difficult moments.
CARE PACK was inspired by Boo, our tiny Yorkshire Terrier and very first Trauma Buddy — 001. Boo showed us something simple but powerful: dogs have an incredible ability to reach people when words sometimes cannot.
Our vision is to support first responders, patients, families, and others affected by critical incidents. CARE PACK teams may be called upon in appropriate situations involving fires, serious accidents, unexpected deaths, extended ambulance waits, evacuations and muster areas, post-incident support for emergency personnel, and so much more..
CARE PACK is more than bringing a therapy dog to an emergency scene.
We don’t simply visit. We arrive prepared.
Our handlers complete specialized education and readiness requirements, while our dogs receive ongoing training and desensitization for the unique sights, sounds, equipment and environments associated with emergency response.
CARE PACK is designed to work alongside fire, police, paramedics and other emergency professionals, adding another layer of support without interfering with emergency care or scene safety.
We believe caring for people during an emergency can mean caring for the heart as well as responding to the crisis.
Come meet CARE PACK Buddies at Bark Fest!
CARE PACK — Paws for Comfort, Hearts for Connection.