Robert Irvine Foundation
Hardee County Fire Department
Hardee County Fire & Rescue
Hardee County Fire & Rescue is one of Florida’s largest rural fire departments, serving a vast community spread across farmland, small towns, and busy highways. Every day, their EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters respond to emergencies that test the limits of their skill, courage, and resilience—ranging from devastating car accidents to structure fires, severe medical calls, and life-threatening rescues. The weight of those experiences can be heavy, and over time, the constant exposure to trauma takes a toll on even the strongest first responders.
Wellness Program _
Facility Dog Revie Recipient
Revie: The Firehouse Companion
That’s where Revie comes in. As the department’s facility dog, Revie has a job just as important as any crew member’s—caring for the mental and emotional well-being of the team. Specially trained to provide comfort and emotional support, she instinctively knows when someone needs a quiet nuzzle, a playful distraction, or simply the steady presence of a loyal friend. After high-stress calls, Revie greets responders with a wagging tail and calming demeanor, helping to ease tension, lower stress levels, and create a safe space for decompression.
In a profession where strength is often measured by how much you can carry—both physically and emotionally—Revie reminds her team that it’s okay to set the load down for a moment. She has become a beloved member of the firehouse family, boosting morale, fostering connection, and helping those who help others find moments of peace amid the chaos.