Dogs have assisted human law enforcement officers in combating crime since the Middle Ages, when village constables utilized bloodhounds to deter criminals. However, the concept of “comfort dogs” in the K-9 unit, brought in to aid individuals in processing anxiety, stress, PTSD, and other emotions following a crime, is relatively recent. This concept is gaining traction in police departments across the nation. In many instances, these comfort K-9s also function as friendly representatives of the police force, visiting schools, nursing homes, hospitals, courthouses, and other anxiety-inducing locations to boost morale and foster connections with the local community.
The Bristol, Rhode Island police officers have joined the trend by introducing K-9 Brody to their ranks. “We’re very excited for Brody to meet the people in our community, and we’re very excited for him to meet the students in the Bristol-Warren Regional School District,” remarked School Patrol Officer Keith Medeiros about the charming chocolate Labrador retriever puppy. The swearing-in ceremony for Brody was even live-streamed on the department’s Facebook page.
Regrettably, little Brody did not share Medeiros’ enthusiasm. In fact, during the swearing-in ceremony conducted behind him, the department’s first comfort dog dozed off peacefully. Being this adorable is evidently quite tiring!
Nonetheless, Police Chief Kevin Lynch remained optimistic about having a puppy on the team, especially because Brody, in addition to working with officers and assisting crime victims, will also spend time with local students and residents in nursing homes as a community ambassador.
Lynch stated, “I knew we had a winning formula for the town.” He believes that Brody is an outstanding example of making a positive impact and predicts that he will become a beloved figure in the town of Bristol. Despite these high praises from his commanding officer, little Brody remained sound asleep and undisturbed, shifting into a more comfortable sleeping position. The adorable puppy managed to sleep through his entire swearing-in ceremony. Nevertheless, the officers have high expectations for their town’s first comfort dog, who will also provide solace to witnesses during police investigations. In addition to helping alleviate stress and anxiety in traumatic situations, research indicates that therapy dogs may even enhance witnesses’ recall abilities.