Meet Goose

Learn all about Goose, the friendly fire dog kids love

Meet Goose

Goose is a fire dog, and that means it’s his job to help out when people are in trouble! Goose takes his job very seriously… but it can be scary, too. When Goose and the firefighters are called to a building fire, they realize it’s up to them to rescue a woman from her apartment. The firefighters come up with a plan, but they need extra help from Goose. Can this brave dog overcome his fear to help fight the fire and save the day? Goose the Fire Dog and the Big Fire is the first book in a series about a fire dog and the firefighters at his station. This inspiring story helps children build confidence when stepping out of their comfort zone, and reminds us that we can overcome anxiety and accomplish many things when we believe in ourselves and have the support of our peers.

Check out Goose's adventures on the weekly Tales From Bark Mountain Podcasts - Tales From Bark Mountain (podcast) - Fire Chief Steve | Listen Notes

Goose is a five-year-old Border Collie — smart, loyal, and full of heart. With his shiny brown-and-white coat and bright, curious eyes, he was always the first to leap into action when the fire alarm sounds at Bark Mountain Fire Department. At five years old (that’s about thirty-nine in human years!), Goose is wise enough to know when to stay calm, but still young enough to chase every adventure with boundless energy.

He loves being a fire dog, especially when it means keeping his town safe or comforting kids after a scary day. Whether he’s riding on the truck, rescuing kittens, or wagging his tail at the fire hall, Goose reminds everyone that courage comes in all sizes — and that teamwork, kindness, and a wagging tail can make any day brighter

Goose the Fire Dog

"Goose The Fire Dog and The Big Fire is a delightful children's book authored by a dedicated firefighter, inspired by his own faithful companion, Goose. Young readers are introduced to a heartwarming tale of bravery, teamwork, and overcoming fears. Goose, the lovable dog, embodies the spirit of courage as he joins the firefighters on a call to save a resident trapped in a burning building. The book’s illustrations bring the scenes to life, enhancing its educational value by teaching children about the challenges of firefighting and the importance of staying calm in emergencies. As Goose tackles climbing the ladder, readers learn valuable lessons about perseverance and self-belief. His moments of doubt remind kids that it's okay to feel scared sometimes, but with encouragement and support, they can achieve great things. It's an excellent choice for story time. I love this charming little book!"—Anita Owens

Steve Serbic is a passionate author and advocate, who has spoken in hundreds of high schools and elementary schools across the country, using his voice to empower young people to make better, more mindful decisions. With honesty and heart, he shares powerful messages about mental health, resilience, and self-worth, reminding kids that it’s not only okay to struggle—it’s human. Steve’s unique ability to connect through storytelling helps break down stigma and encourages kids to speak up, support one another, and believe in their own potential. His mission is simple but impactful: to help youth feel seen, heard, and never alone in their journey.

Goose was a puppy, and Steve was a Deputy Chief of Operations when the story was created. This is Steve’s third book; his first children’s book. His first two books, Extinguished and Unbroken are mental health books written to support first responders.

Goose and Steve live on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

Tales from Bark Mountain is more than a podcast—it’s a calm, reassuring place where little listeners learn how to understand their big feelings. Guided by Fire Chief Steve and his loyal partner Goose the Fire Dog, each episode gently supports children as they navigate worry, fear, sadness, and those hard-to-name emotions that can feel overwhelming.

Fire Chief Steve brings a steady, kind presence. He listens first, speaks softly, and models what it looks like to pause before reacting. Through simple conversations and real-life-inspired rescue stories, he shows kids that feelings aren’t problems to fix—they’re signals to notice. When characters feel scared, unsure, or overwhelmed, Chief Steve helps them slow down, breathe, and remember they’re not alone. Children hear that it’s okay to ask for help and that courage doesn’t mean being fearless—it means showing up anyway.

Goose the Fire Dog adds warmth, comfort, and joy. With his wagging tail and gentle heart, Goose reminds kids that calm can be playful. He helps children learn grounding skills in a way that feels natural and safe—taking a breath, noticing what’s around them, or focusing on something steady when emotions run high. Goose shows that even heroes feel nervous sometimes, and that kindness toward yourself is a superpower.

Each episode of Tales from Bark Mountain weaves emotional learning into cozy storytelling. Listeners hear firefighters, friends, and community helpers face challenges together—whether it’s a foggy rescue, a tough training day, or a moment of self-doubt. The stories normalize anxiety and big feelings while offering practical tools kids can use right away: breathing through fear, naming emotions, trusting their inner voice, and leaning on their community

In Bark Mountain, everyone knows this to be true: when big feelings show up, you don’t have to push them away. You pause, you breathe, and you let the calm inside you—just like Goose—lead the way.