Crew Member: Carrie II
Breed : Labrador and Golden Retriever Cross
About Carrie II
Carrie is one of the beloved Facility Dogs at CARES Northwest, where she plays an important role in helping children and families feel safe and supported during their medical and forensic evaluations. Whether she’s offering comfort in the waiting room before or after a forensic interview, providing support to a family member of a patient while meeting with the Family Support Team, or providing quiet reassurance to staff members after a challenging day, Carrie has an incredible ability to sense what people need.
Her calm and affectionate presence helps children and families relax, builds trust, and makes what can be a stressful experience feel a little gentler. Carrie has also been trained in a specialized cue of “cover” to provide deep, therapeutic pressure as a grounding technique when a youth or family member is experiencing anxiety during the evaluation process.
Carrie was expertly trained by Canine Companions, a national nonprofit organization that raises and trains service and facility dogs. From puppyhood, Carrie learned over 40 specialized commands and was carefully socialized to remain composed and responsive in a variety of environments. After completing her advanced training, Carrie was matched with her handler, Dominique, at Team Training—a two-week intensive program where the two learned to work together as a team. Carrie now uses her skills and loving nature to provide comfort, connection, and a sense of calm to those who need it most.
Carrie has a remarkable ability to sense when someone needs comfort most. During one forensic interview, a patient became overwhelmed while sharing their story and was unable to continue. When Carrie entered the interview room and gently curled up on the patient’s lap, her calm presence helped the patient feel safe enough to finish the interview.
In another instance, during a debrief with a parent following an evaluation, the parent became very emotional upon hearing disclosures shared by their child. Without any prompt, Carrie approached and gently rested her head in the parent’s lap, offering quiet comfort and reassurance. Her calm presence helped the parent feel supported during a very difficult moment, showing how her compassion extends not only to children but to the families served at CARES Northwest as well.
When Carrie is off duty she is playful, speedy, and always ready for an adventure. She loves exploring local Sniffspots and spending time with her two doggy siblings at home, Kobe and Bailey. Whether they’re chasing each other around the yard or relaxing together at home, Carrie enjoys every moment of her downtime. Her joyful, energetic personality outside of work is the perfect balance to her calm, nurturing presence when she’s at CARES Northwest providing comfort and support to others.
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