Summer is in full swing, and our sponsored therapy dog Mayzie continues to bring comfort and support to first responders in her community. In late June, Mayzie reached an incredible milestone: 130 visits to first responders! Her calm presence and wagging tail have brought countless smiles and comfort to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line. With every visit, Mayzie is not only spreading joy—she's also working toward her next big goal: the American Kennel Club’s Therapy Dog Excellent title, awarded at 200 visits. And that’s just the beginning. At 400 visits, she’ll earn the Therapy Dog Distinguished title, and the ultimate honor—Therapy Dog Supreme—awaits at 600 visits. With her big heart and unstoppable spirit, we know Mayzie is well on her way.
Mayzie Steps Up for Fire Season
As fire season intensifies, Mayzie’s visits to support firefighters have taken on even deeper meaning. Her calm, loving presence offers a much-needed moment of relief for wildland firefighters who work tirelessly to protect our communities. On average, 19 wildland firefighters lose their lives each year in the line of duty, a sobering reminder of the dangers they face.
Supporting the Crew at the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District
During a recent visit to Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, Mayzie brought her signature calm to a crew gearing up for their busiest season. With the summer influx of tourists to South Lake Tahoe, the department is on high alert, ready to respond to increased calls and wildfire risks. The timing of Mayzie’s visit couldn’t have been better—not only did she offer a moment of stress relief, but she also helped ease some interview jitters. The station was holding promotion interviews that day, and Mayzie’s gentle demeanor provided a welcome distraction, helping candidates relax and refocus. It was a reminder that even small moments of comfort can make a big impact during high-pressure days.
Helping Spread the Word about the Importance of Wildfire Preparedness
Mayzie and her mom, Adrienne, also had the honor of attending an important community meeting hosted by South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue, focused on Defensible Space and wildfire preparedness. The event brought together city leaders and local agencies—including Mayor Tamara Wallace, Fire Chief Jim Drennan, and Division Chief Jay Manning—to educate residents on how to protect their homes and neighborhoods as fire season intensifies. Topics ranged from home hardening tips to curbside chipping services, emphasizing the community’s role in wildfire prevention. With her paws firmly planted in the heart of the action, Mayzie once again reminded everyone that emotional support is just as vital as practical preparedness.
Celebrating Community and New Equipment with El Dorado County Fire and Tribal Fire
To wrap up an impactful month of visits, Mayzie stopped by a special event hosted by El Dorado County Fire Protection District and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Tribal Fire Department at Red Hawk Casino in Shingle Springs, CA. The highlight of the day? Their brand-new ladder truck—an impressive addition to their firefighting fleet that drew plenty of attention from the community. Mayzie and her mom Adrienne attended, greeting firefighters and guests alike with love and tail wags. It was a perfect blend of celebrating progress and recognizing the people—and pups—who help keep our communities safe.
Wild Tahoe Festival Community event at Taylor Creek with Wildland Firefighters
Mayzie and Adrienne, along with her friend Leona Allen, also attended the Wild Tahoe Festival Community event at Taylor Creek with Wildland Firefighters, local agencies, and the Battalion Chief/Fire Prevention Officer of Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Olivia. Mayzie enjoyed meeting members of her community and giving furry hugs to the wildland firefighters in attendance. The event is organized by the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science, Great Basin Institute, and USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, along with local partners, to celebrate the unique wildlife and ecosystems of the Tahoe Basin.
Honoring the Angora Fire Anniversary with Action and Awareness
June 24 marked the 18th anniversary of the Angora Fire, a tragic event that burned 3,100 acres, destroyed 254 homes, and left a lasting impact on the South Lake Tahoe community. The devastation of that day serves as a powerful reminder of what’s at stake—and why wildfire preparedness matters now more than ever. As we reflect on the lessons learned, it’s clear that building fire-adapted communities and fostering resilient landscapes isn’t just the job of firefighters—it’s a shared responsibility. Mayzie’s work with local fire departments highlights the importance of unity, healing, and awareness in the face of these challenges. To learn how you can get involved and help strengthen your community’s wildfire resilience, visit tahoelivingwithfire.com.
How You Can Help:
Learn more:
Visit Wildland Firefighter Foundation to learn more about how you can support wildland firefighters and their families when tragedy strikes
Honor wildland firefighters:
Wildland Fire Week of Remembrance: June 30 - July 6.
This week was established to honor wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.
National Wildland Firefighter Day: July 2nd
This day recognizes the dedication of wildland firefighters, including federal, state, local, Tribal, military, rural, contract, and support personnel.
