During National EMS Week, AdventHealth Georgia is welcoming a new source of comfort and encouragement for its Emergency Medical Services team.

Winston, a 12-week-old therapy dog in training, has officially joined the AdventHealth Georgia EMS family. Once fully trained, Winston will support patients, families, caregivers, and first responders across Northwest Georgia.

AdventHealth says Winston was generously donated and comes from a family already connected to the health care system. His father serves as the “Chief Bark Ambassador” at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel near Tampa, Florida, and several of Winston’s littermates are also joining hospitals in Texas and Florida as therapy and support dogs.

Winston’s placement with AdventHealth Georgia EMS was made possible through support from the AdventHealth Georgia Foundation. Foundation President Garrett Nudd said Winston will be a valuable member of the EMS team and will help connect with the community while supporting patients and staff.

Once his training is complete, Winston will take part in patient and staff visits, community and school events, outreach with public safety partners, peer support, and critical incident stress management debriefings.

Winston’s handler, EMS team member Jodi Johnston, said the program is an important step toward supporting mental health in public safety.

Winston has already received his AdventHealth team member badge, officially marking the start of his role with AdventHealth Georgia EMS.