Continuing the mission through the K9 Tesla Foundation
The K9 Tesla Foundation was created to carry on Tesla’s legacy of comfort, connection, and care. This initiative provides financial support to public safety departments that operate—or wish to launch—therapy dog programs. These programs offer vital mental health benefits to firefighters, dispatchers, police officers, and other emergency personnel who often face intense emotional demands.
Tesla spent her life walking alongside these heroes. Now, the foundation walks alongside others like her—dogs trained to serve those who serve us.
Built for the public safety community
Therapy dog programs in fire, EMS, dispatch, and law enforcement agencies often rely entirely on volunteers and community donations. The K9 Tesla Foundation provides funding to public safety departments that:
- Currently operate a certified therapy dog program and need support to maintain it
- Want to launch a new therapy dog program but need funding for training, certification, or care
- Are working in rural, underserved, or underfunded communities
We prioritize applicants who can demonstrate how their therapy dog supports or will support the mental health of department staff and the broader community.
Apply for a scholarship
Helping your department bring healing to the front lines
If you’re part of a public safety organization and need financial assistance for a therapy dog program, we invite you to apply for support through the K9 Tesla Foundation.
FAQs
We know every department is different, and starting—or sustaining—a therapy dog program comes with a lot of questions. Whether you’re just beginning or already operating a program, this FAQ will help guide you through the scholarship process and what to expect.
Who is eligible to apply?
Public safety departments—including fire, EMS, dispatch, and law enforcement agencies—within the United States are eligible. You may apply if you currently have a therapy dog program or are looking to start one.
Do we need to already have a therapy dog in place?
No. You can apply whether you already have a certified therapy dog or are working toward launching a program. If you’re just starting out, be sure to include your plan, timeline, and how funding would be used.
What expenses does the scholarship cover?
- dog acquisition or adoption costs
- training and certification for therapy work
- veterinary care and health maintenance
- program supplies (vests, leashes, ID, etc.)
- handler education, travel, or related expenses
How are recipients selected?
Applications are reviewed by our advisory team, with priority given to departments:
- in rural or underserved communities
- without existing funding sources
- with a clear plan for impact and sustainability
How often can we apply?
You can apply once per calendar year. If your program evolves or you are launching a new phase, you’re welcome to submit an updated application during the next cycle.
When will we hear back?
We review applications on a quarterly basis. You’ll receive an email confirmation when your application is received, and we aim to notify recipients within 6–8 weeks of each deadline.