Service dog trained in Colorado Springs helps first responders at El Paso shooting

A service dog from Colorado Springs is now helping first responders and medical staff who cared for victims after Saturday’s mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas.

Employees from District 20, The Classical Academy – College Pathways say he was raised and trained right in their hallways with the help of students.

They say Rudy was taught love and support, some of the same emotions he brought first responders. The district was able to get him through a partnership with Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The district shared this statement with KRDO saying, “We are humbled and proud to see the valiant work Rudy is doing in taking the love of 600 students and staff from his puppyhood into carrying out his purpose as a crisis management service dog. We think Colorado Springs might feel in some way, that as a city are contributing to caring for those affected in the El Paso tragedy by knowing Rudy’s roots are in our Colorado Springs backyard.”

Rudy, along with two other service dogs, arrived in El Paso from San Antonio Sunday. Their handlers say they will stay in El Paso as long as they need to.