K9 Comfort Dog Team headed to Waukesha to help those impacted by Waukesha Christmas Parade Attack

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A team of specially trained golden retrievers are heading to Waukesha to help those affected by the Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy.

Officials say these retrievers are part of the Lutheran Church Charities K9 Comfort Dog Team.

The national non-profit works to bring comfort during the hardest moments in people's lives.

Lutheran Church Charities says five of the comfort dogs are from Wisconsin, while two are coming from Illinois.

"The dogs are just doing their jobs in essence," Lutheran Church Charities comfort dog handler Gary Killinger said. "That's what they're trained to do, to bring this calmness to people's lives." 

Some people find it hard to share their emotions with others following tragedies, which is why comfort dogs are also there to listen and show affection when needed.

Organizers say that next week the canines will also meet with first responders who were at the Waukesha Christmas Parade during the time of the tragedy.