As wildfires ravage parts of Southern California, countless heroes have emerged, including Jack, an 11-year-old Golden Retriever therapy dog, and his handler, Pasadena Fire Department chaplain Victor Laveaga. Together, they bring comfort to firefighters and evacuees who have faced unimaginable challenges.

Jack has become a symbol of hope for first responders battling the infernos. Laveaga, a retired firefighter of 33 years, recounts moments of connection as firefighters, weary and covered in soot, find solace in Jack’s gentle presence. “Petting the dog and hugging him starts bringing in those hormones like dopamine and endorphins,” Laveaga explains, adding that these interactions often encourage firefighters to open up about their experiences.

Jack’s impact extends beyond the fire lines to evacuation centers, where displaced families and children find joy and relief in his company. Laveaga reflects on the smiles Jack brings, especially to children enduring long waits in evacuation shelters: “To see those kids just smiling... I’m so proud of Jack.”

For Laveaga, Jack’s work embodies hope and healing. “We’re not the heroes,” he humbly says. “The firefighters and evacuees are the real heroes.” In times of crisis, Jack’s presence reminds all of us of the healing power of connection.