In Minnesota, two remarkable therapy dogs are stepping up to support the emotional well-being of first responders.
Rip and Summit, both Golden Retrievers, are part of the state’s first traveling K-9 therapy dog duo for law enforcement, an initiative led by the Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). Unlike the intimidating German Shepherds often seen in K-9 units, these gentle dogs have a different mission: breaking down emotional barriers and offering comfort to those who put their lives on the line.
“I’ve always had a great understanding of the pain responders face with repeated exposure to trauma,” said Tom Lowery, a former firefighter and active police officer who, along with his wife Paige, owns and handles the dogs. “Seeing the dogs bring joy to other people is like a proud parent moment. That’s the really fun part of working with dogs in this capacity,” he told WCCO – CBS Minnesota.
A Statewide Mission of Support
While some larger police departments, like those in Minneapolis, have their own therapy K-9s, Rip and Summit are unique in their reach. They are on call for public safety agencies across Minnesota, ready to provide comfort wherever needed.
This year alone, the state has faced significant loss within its first responder community, including the tragic deaths of six officers in 2024. Among them were Jesse Branch of the Red Lake Nation Police, National Park Service Ranger Kevin Grossheim, and Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell. Burnsville police officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter paramedic Adam Finseth, were also killed in the line of duty.
“Of course, it affects the whole agency because we all realize that could be us any day,” Lowery said in his interview with WCCO – CBS Minnesota. “The turmoil those officers go through as they process all of that – what’s going to happen to me? Did I make a mistake? Is the person going to be okay? We will be there to support them however we can.”
Community-Funded Support
The Lowerys operate the therapy dog program without a salary, relying instead on donations through the Fraternal Order of Police for expenses like gasoline, dog grooming, and other necessities. To support their work, FOP is hosting a fundraiser on May 21 in partnership with Brew Pub Pizza in Eden Prairie.
“Really, it’s a great pizza for a great cause,” said Matt Selvig, a spokesman for Brew Pub Pizza. “What we’re wanting to do with it is take care of those heroes and patriots that serve us every day.”
Looking to the Future
As Rip and Summit continue their mission, they offer a vital reminder of the importance of emotional support within the law enforcement community. In a profession often defined by physical and mental toughness, these two gentle companions serve as a source of comfort, resilience, and connection.
Their work not only brings immediate relief to officers processing difficult experiences but also helps break the stigma around mental health within law enforcement.
The bond these dogs share with the officers they support is a powerful reminder that compassion and understanding are as essential to public safety as courage and strength.
As their reach expands, Rip and Summit are becoming symbols of healing, helping to restore emotional well-being one interaction at a time. Through every paw they place on a weary officer’s lap, they provide a moment of calm amid chaos, a reminder that no one has to face their struggles alone.
