about us
HOLDING THE SECRETS AND HEALING THE HEROES
Nearly 30% of first responders develop mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD. Among firefighters alone, studies show PTSD prevalence rates ranging from 6.5% to 37%, and tragically, suicide rates are estimated to be 1.5 times higher than the general population. These are the “secrets” many responders keep behind their courage and dedication.
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These specially trained dogs are more than companions—they perform tasks that directly address PTSD symptoms, such as interrupting flashbacks, applying calming pressure during anxiety episodes, and creating a sense of safety in public spaces. Studies show that petting or cuddling a dog stimulates dopamine and oxytocin release in humans and research shows that individuals living with PTSD who are paired with service dogs often experience reduced symptom severity, improved sleep, and greater social engagement. Service dogs foster independence and confidence, helping individuals reclaim daily routines that once felt overwhelming. These dogs are more than helpers—they are catalysts for healing, offering both emotional resilience and measurable health benefits.
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At Secret Keepers, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, our mission is to stand beside the heroes who carry unseen burdens. We provide highly trained service dogs to first responders and military who face the hidden toll of trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our dogs are more than companions—they are lifelines. With loyalty as steadfast as the brotherhood, they bring comfort, resilience, and healing to those who have given so much. Secret Keepers ensures that every partnership between responder and dog is built on trust, courage, and the shared commitment to saving lives.
Our Beginning
In 2021, a seed of hope was planted in my heart. My husband, a retired firefighter, carried with him the weight of loss—friends and brothers from the fire department who had taken their own lives after years of silent battles. Their absence left an ache that words could never fill, and a question that would not leave: How can we help first responders feel less alone in their darkest moments?
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At first, the path forward was not clear. Doors closed, opportunities slipped away, and we both felt God telling us to pause. So we waited. We prayed. And in 2024, the vision returned with renewed strength and purpose.
For me, dogs have always been a source of comfort. My border collie, Belle, has been my steady companion—her gentle presence reminding me that even in the hardest days, peace can be found in unconditional love. One day, it became clear: if Belle could bring me such comfort, why couldn’t service dogs bring that same healing to the firefighting family we cherish?
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That simple thought became our mission. We began this nonprofit with a dream to pair first responders with service dogs who can walk beside them, offering companionship, grounding, and hope. These dogs are more than helpers—they are lifelines, reminders that no one has to face the weight of trauma alone.
Our beginning is rooted in love: love for the firefighting community, love for those who serve, and love for the healing bond between humans and dogs. What started as a whisper of an idea has grown into a calling—to bring comfort, peace, and connection to those who have given so much of themselves. I truly can’t wait to see how God uses these Secret Keepers!
madison
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