Flagler County Fire Rescue welcomes first responder therapy dog, 'Taco'

ORLANDO, Fla. - Flagler County Fire Rescue has embraced the holiday season with a new therapy dog, Taco, to provide comfort and support during traumatic events. 

Taco, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, has been trained to assist first responders and the community by offering emotional support in high-stress situations. 

Community Paramedic Rob Errett and Taco graduated from Paws and Stripes College, a program designed by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office to train therapy dogs for emergency services. The program is a partnership with the University of Central Florida Veterans Academic Resource Center and Space Coast Therapy Dogs.

"The usage of therapy dogs within emergency services is a growing trend to ensure the mental health of our citizens and our first responders," said Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker. "While Flagler County is not the first to implement this type of program, we will certainly help raise the bar for other emergency services providers to reach."

Errett was quick to agree when Tucker approached him about turning Taco into a therapy dog. After discussing the idea with his wife, the couple decided it would be a beneficial project for both the fire rescue team and the community. Errett and Taco enrolled in Paws and Stripes College, a free program that trains therapy dogs.

"Taco is a rock star. He was already very well-trained. He always makes me look good," Errett said. "I was a little worried about my own abilities."

While Taco won’t be at work every day, Errett can bring him in when needed, the department said.