K9 Tesla, an incredible K9 and asset to many Wisconsin Communities, passed away in April of 2025 after suffering a spinal cord stroke. Her official duties included assisting first responders as a therapy K9; however, her reach was far more extensive than that. She gave her love and attention to anyone who needed it in their community. The OPK9 Medical Team of Wisconsin was honored to have her and her handler, Matt Haerter, assist with teaching first responders medical care on K9s that could be injured in the field. We will forever be grateful to Tess and Matt.
Matthew Haerter has started a K9 Tesla Scholarship Fund to raise money to support other therapy dog programs like the one he and Tesla started 6 years ago.