It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of the beloved dog, Mike, the Idyllwild Fire Department Mascot. Mike, previously known as Evan, was adopted by Paul Riggi on December 28, 2017 from Living Free Animal Sanctuary.  Mike had been returned to Living Free once before, but found the perfect forever home with Paul and the Idyllwild Fire Department. Mike was naturally good as a therapy dog and his talents made him shine as a mascot and emotional support dog.

Paul had been working in the fire service since 1965. After retiring as a Captain, he was elected as a Fire Commissioner. He is an instructor for the state and volunteer president for the Idyllwild Fire Department. Four years ago, his team started begging Paul to get them a dog. They insisted that a dog would be good for morale. Paul caved but insisted that, while the dog would be part of the fire department, at the end of the day it would come home with him. 

Paul made a trip to Living Free with the hopes of finding a highly trainable dog. Paul shared, “I asked for a lab type dog, one that would be easy to train. They showed me Mike and I said, ‘that looks like a winner.’ I knew right away that he was the one to become part of my life and work.” After that, Mike became an integral part of the Idyllwild Fire Department.  

Mike would ride in the fire truck and help folks in distress during a medical emergency by keeping people calm while the firefighters did their job. Paul remembers one occasion when he arrived to help with a car wreck where children had been involved. The kids were very scared and stressed, so Paul brought Mike over to them. Mike comforted the kids and helped them take their mind off the accident. 

Mike learned to stop, drop, and roll on command and would go with Paul to educate people and give demonstrations.  He spent time at the Idyllwild Library where kids would read books to him. Mike also acted as an emotional support for the firefighters when they came back from fighting a fire.  After a difficult night, Mike was there for the firefighters to help them unwind and recalibrate. He loved hanging out at the fire station and spending time with the team.

Paul shared, “When I went to put on my fire jacket, Mike got all excited and knew that he was going to the fire department.  I believe a dog needs a job to be happy and Mike found his place helping me, the firefighters, and people in distress.”

When Paul’s wife became ill, Mike became her constant companion. He instinctively knew how to comfort her and support her. Whenever Mike was home, he could be found lying near Paul’s wife. 

Sadly, Mike started to get sick and, after being seen by a veterinarian, it was discovered that he had developed lung cancer. After 4 years together, Paul and the Idyllwild Fire Department had to say goodbye to their beloved dog. 

Thank you Paul for loving Mike and for seeing the potential in this special dog. Mike touched many lives and had a unique ability to comfort those in need. We know he will be greatly missed.