Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/stray-bernese-becomes-therapy-dog/
A stray Bernese mountain dog found wandering the streets has just joined the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office as their first therapy dog.
The six-month-old puppy is in training but was chosen for his sweet demeanor and love of people. Franklin County Animal Care and Control recommended the dog to the department after picking him up in January.
On March 1st, the new addition was introduced to the public and his name, which has a special meaning, was also announced.
“Meet Therapy K9 Otto, the newest member of the Sheriff’s Office. He was named in honor of former Deputy Otto, who died in 2012 after an off-duty car crash,” tweeted the department.
Meet Therapy K9 Otto, the newest member of the Sheriff’s Office. He was named in honor of former Deputy Otto, who died in 2012 after an off-duty car crash. Thank you to @FCSOTherapyK9 and @FranklinCoDog for their partnership and support to help us welcome our first Therapy K9.🐾 pic.twitter.com/GJLmkWFQ3d
— Delaware County SO (@DelCoSheriff) March 3, 2022
Ottos is already bringing a smile to the face of everyone he meets and will soon be hard at work.
“Otto will eventually provide comfort to victims, first responders, witnesses, students, anyone in need of unconditional support and love. And the occasional visit to the sheriff’s office in particular,” Delaware County Sheriff Russell Martin said in a press release. “Mental health has always been a part of law enforcement. Our response to it and how we deal with it, both with the clientele and the citizens, but also among those that we work with each and every day. Frankly it’s become synonymous with our work. A therapy dog is a gentle but strong and proven way to assist with mental health and trauma.”
Otto was pictured alongside his handler and partner, Deputy Keith Cox. The two will be inseparable as they will work and live together. The adorable pup is already living with Cox and his family as he goes through training.
A photo of Otto with the family of his namesake was also shared on social media. The community took to the comment section on Facebook to welcome the new K9 and praise the department for remembering Deputy Otto.
“Absolutely awesome tribute to Deputy Otto. No doubt K9 Otto will be great and help many people,” wrote one person.
Otto is the first and only therapy K9 but will join three other K9 officers – Dahgo, Kahless and Essac.
The department is thrilled to have K9 Otto on their team. They said, “We’re excited to welcome this paw-some addition to our staff!”
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
