About Us

The Community Resource K-9 (CRK-9) Initiative is a specialized program designed exclusively for professional organizations, with a primary focus on supporting first responder agencies. Our mission is to enhance mental health, physical well-being, and operational resilience by integrating evidence-based practices with practical, canine-centered solutions.

In addition to our core CRK-9 services, we provide a full suite of support options tailored to the unique needs of first responder environments, including:

• Agency Consultations
  Expert guidance on program development, wellness initiatives, and implementing canine-assisted support within your department.
   
• Canine Acquisition
  Assistance in selecting canines that are temperament-appropriate, mission-aligned, and well-suited for your agency’s goals.
   
• Certification Services
  Professional certifications that ensure teams meet established standards for safety, effectiveness, and readiness.
   
• Custom Training Courses
  Training programs built specifically for first responder agencies. These can include:
   
  • Handler-only training for teams already paired with an existing canine.
     
  • Full start-to-finish courses that begin with a new canine and guide the agency through bonding, training, integration, and ongoing utilization.
     

Whether your agency is launching its first wellness canine program or expanding an existing one, the CRK9 Initiative delivers structured, mission-ready solutions that strengthen resilience, reduce stress, and foster a healthier organizational culture.

Andrea Hering, CPDT-KA, CCISM, C-AAIS

John Hunt, CCISM, C-AAIS