Project K-9 Hero: Life Force leads the way

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – It’s a big step forward in emergency care for working dogs. Life Force Air Medical, part of Erlanger Health System, has made history as Tennessee’s first air ambulance service to offer critical transport for K-9s injured or ill in the line of duty.

This expansion ensures that the highly trained dogs who serve in law enforcement and military operations receive the same level of emergency care as their human counterparts.

This achievement has been a long time in the making.

Working dogs are often on the front lines, risking their lives daily. Now, they will have access to rapid, life-saving transport to pre-designated veterinary hospitals, just like any sworn officer.

Jason Johnson, Founder and CEO of Project K-9 Hero, expressed why this service is so vital, saying, “This is important because I look at being a K-9 handler as the most honorable profession in the world. And when critical incidents happen to a K-9 officer, we don’t have minutes — we have seconds.”

The team at Life Force is expanding its mission to include these four-legged heroes.

Flight members will undergo months of specialized training, including learning proper handling techniques, recognizing signs of distress, and administering emergency interventions during transport.

Robbie Tester, Vice President of Patient Logistics, explained the significance of treating K-9s with the same urgency as humans.

“And in this particular case, yes, they’re animals, but they are sworn officers. Sometimes they’re protecting human lives by doing what they do. And getting them — just like a human — to a Level 1 trauma center, for their chances of survival to be great, we have to do the same thing for these animals.”

For handlers, these K-9s are more than partners — they are family.

Whitney Payne, a K-9 Deputy with the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office, shared, “You know, typically, you’re with your partner more than you’re with your family, so you care for them like you would your child, basically. It’s a little different than just having a pet.”

The new program highlights the critical role working K-9s play in protecting communities, emphasizing the dedication both the dogs and their handlers bring to their jobs.

Dr. Richard Wearing, Veterinary Medical Director, elaborated on the bond and the commitment involved.

“I have a lot of respect for these canine officers and their handlers, and I really, from working with them through the years, understand the amount of dedication and commitment that these canine handlers have.”

Medical experts say few programs nationwide offer this type of specialized care.

Billy Pullen, Medical Director of Veterinary Care and Specialty Group (VCSG), expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “There are very few programs in the United States doing that, and we’re just honored to be a part of it.”

Through this expansion, Life Force Air Medical is ensuring that the working dogs who protect and serve receive the emergency medical care they deserve — delivering help not just swiftly, but with the utmost respect for their service and sacrifice.