Fla. Responders Learn How to Deal With Dogs
Source Tampa Tribune (Florida)
NEW PORT RICHEY A sheriff's deputy is the first to arrive at the scene of an emergency call, only to encounter a snarling, snapping dog. Or the nervous animal appears lost, perhaps even hurt.
What's a first responder to do?
Jennie Briguglio, operations director at SPCA Suncoast, will give that information to Pasco County deputies and police officers in the first of several classes beginning Monday.
The Canine How To's Class enhances training for police, firefighters and paramedics, said Briguglio, a former deputy.
First responders can learn how to avoid problems with dogs that might be anxious or unpredictable at a fire, emergency or natural disaster. Patrol officers often encounter animals, too.
Briguglio's course discusses ways to make potentially dangerous dogs less likely to become aggressive.
She finished developing the class about the same time the St. Petersburg Police Department was reviewing an incident in which an officer shot a dog.
Briguglio subsequently provided training to most St. Petersburg police officers in the field. She wanted to offer her expertise to Pasco emergency responders as well.
SPCA Suncoast Executive Director Gail Armstrong received a letter from St. Petersburg police commending Briguglio.
"Jennie has worked hard to create this class and her law enforcement background has enabled her to connect with her audience in a way that is meaningful and practical to their work," the letter states.
To learn more about the class, contact Briguglio at (727) 849-1048, ext. 204, or jennie@spcasuncoast.org
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