Northville Township Police Department is expanding by four paws. A 16-week-old male Goldendoodle will undergo training to join the department as a police support dog, and the newest recruit needs a name. The Police Department seeks the community’s assistance in naming him.
To make a suggestion, residents are asked to leave their idea on Northville Township’s Facebook or Instagram accounts or by emailing socialmedia@twp.northville.mi.us. The deadline is this Friday, Sept. 30.
A support dog provides comfort and aid for people during times of crisis, particularly violent or traumatic events. They also reduce anxiety and increase communication between witnesses and investigators, whether they are adults or children.
They are a welcome presence at community events and inside schools, too. Their presence fosters dialog and communications between officers and the residents the Police Department serves.
“He will be a visible and highly popular member of our Department and we couldn’t be more excited to include him in our community policing programming,” said Police Chief Scott Hilden.
Community Service Officer Andrew Domzalski has been researching therapy and support dogs for about a year after he witnessed firsthand how such a dog can change the atmosphere in a room. He felt that Northville Township would benefit from one. After talking with other law enforcement agencies, he learned the temperament of a Goldendoodle, a Golden Retriever and Poodle mix, would be a good fit for the Township. He will be the Goldendoodle’s handler. The puppy will accompany him to work and head home with him after hours. He picks the dog up Tuesday in Sandusky, Mich.
“We explored getting a rescue for this important job because there is such a need for welcoming rescues into a home,” Officer Domzalski said. “After speaking with various experts, other police departments and then meeting the Goldendoodle’s gentle parents, we knew we found a special buddy to help our great community.”
The Goldendoodle begins support dog training in November. In the meantime, Domzalski is assisting the puppy with basic obedience commands.
“He’s a large puppy,” Officer Domzalski said. “I met him over the weekend and he’s awesome. Northville Township Police Department is lucky to have him. Now we need to our residents to name him quickly. I can’t wait to hear their ideas.”
Original source can be found here.
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