Sherburne County Introduces Therapy Dog Peach to Support Mental Health Services

(KNSI) – Sherburne County has introduced a four-legged addition to its mental health services team.

Peach, the county’s first therapy dog, has joined licensed Mental Health Social Worker Emily Machtemes to provide comfort and support to county employees and community members experiencing trauma, mental illness, or stress.

To prepare for this important role, the golden retriever is currently undergoing specialized training through Soldiers 6, a nonprofit organization that provides trained service dogs to honorably discharged veterans, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers. The organization’s mission focuses on helping first responders and veterans navigate life after service with the assistance of specially trained canines.

Machtemes says working with Peach represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Her unique background combines both veterinary medicine experience and social work expertise, along with years of training and exhibiting her personal dog in obedience competitions.

Therapy dogs have been increasingly recognized for their ability to provide emotional support in various settings, from hospitals to schools to government offices. Sherburne County joins this growing trend, following the example of neighboring Stearns County, which launched a similar program in 2021. Peach’s presence is expected to create a calming environment for individuals seeking mental health services and support county staff in high-stress situations.

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