Field Guide for EMS Personnel Caring for Injured K9s

As Adapted from TCCC K9, FEMA, and US Military K9 Care Guides

On March 2, 2020, the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department, Jacksonville, Florida, was tasked with the difficult extrication of an ATF K9 (K9 Bane) from a burning patrol vehicle. When firefighters eventually gained access to the interior kennel, K9 Bane was found unresponsive. In addition to severe hyperthermia and moderate burns, K9 Bane notably had extensive smoke inhalation, which led to complete respiratory collapse.

One of the responding rescue officers noted the severity of K9 Bane’s condition and provided immediate medical care. Despite having no previous veterinary training, the paramedic was able to provide supportive care, which was later credited as saving K9 Bane’s life. Unfortunately, that paramedic faced censure from a variety of sources. As a result, K9s United Founder Debbie Johnson was contacted for assistance. Debbie collaborated with her legislative allies, specifically Florida Senator Wright, and they worked to introduce SB388 to the Florida Legislature. Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB388 into law in August 2021.

Florida SB388 authorizes and directs paramedics and EMTs within Florida to provide emergency veterinary care, including ambulance-based transport for certified service K9s to emergency veterinary facilities.

While K9 handlers should anticipate rudimentary K9 care experience from EMS providers and (assuming physically capable) should expect to continue providing emergency medical care during transport, it is equally paramount that paramedics and EMTs be given proper training, support, and guidance to do so.

Given the rapidly rising number of K9 injuries and fatalities within law enforcement and public service municipalities in 2020, K9s United proposes an additional framework for EMS providers. This template provides initial guidance for agencies as they support paramedics and EMTs who are now tasked with providing lifesaving veterinary care when a K9 is injured in the line of duty.

There are numerous reasons for K9 deaths annually, emphasizing the need to provide guidelines for Florida’s EMS personnel. This guide was created to fill knowledge gaps and offer best practices in caring for operational K9s.