Tom Savoca, owner of Dog Training Does Matter and a Therapy Dog Handler, has a decade of experience in crisis response dog training. His work has been instrumental in providing comfort and support during traumatic events, such as the Parkland High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, and the Surfside Building Collapse in Surfside, Florida.
Savoca’s approach to dog training is based on a balanced method, which includes positive reinforcement techniques as well as other tools used properly to shape a dog’s behavior. This approach is effective in changing unwanted behaviors and teaching dogs to respond appropriately in various situations. In the aftermath of the Parkland High School shooting, therapy dogs were brought in to provide comfort and support to the students, staff, and community. These dogs helped manage stress, anxiety, and trauma related to the incident, becoming an integral part of the school and community life.
Similarly, therapy dogs were deployed to Surfside, Florida, following the building collapse to provide comfort to the families affected by the tragedy and the first responders working tirelessly at the site. These dogs helped soften conversations with families, provided emotional support, and brought some much-needed respite to the first responders. Savoca’s work in crisis response dog training has had a significant impact on the communities he has served. His expertise and dedication have helped countless individuals cope with physical, emotional, and psychological challenges during times of crisis. His commitment to excellence extends beyond training, as he maintains strong relationships with his clients and provides ongoing support.
In conclusion, the value of crisis response dog training, as demonstrated by Tom Savoca’s work, is immense. These specially trained dogs provide comfort, support, and companionship to individuals and communities during times of crisis, helping them navigate through traumatic events and begin the healing process.
