Not all heroes wear capes — some are furry, bark, and walk on all fours.
Several Connecticut police K-9s recently visited Brown University in Rhode Island, alongside other service and comfort dogs, to bring smiles and cuddles to students and staff affected by the recent shooting that left two students dead and nine injured.
Several K-9 teams from Middletown, Colchester, New London, and Southern Connecticut State University took part, according to officials.
A Meriden police K-9 named John and his handler, Officer Stephanie Massella, also took part in the trip to Brown, according to the Meriden Police Department. John, a graduate of the Puppies Behind Bars program, is trained to provide comfort by reducing anxiety, fostering connection, and enhancing communication.
Meriden police said John was met with smiles and received lots of love and affection from the campus community.
“Throughout the day, John met with staff, students, and first responders who were affected by the tragic mass shooting on the Brown University campus and in the greater Providence community,” Meriden police said in a statement. “While our patches may differ and we are separated by invisible borders, Connecticut law enforcement agencies remain united and ready to assist our brother and sister agencies throughout the New England region.”
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Brown University, the City of Providence, and the Police, Fire, and EMS personnel who responded to this senseless tragedy. It was truly an honor to offer our assistance during a time of such profound need.”
Stephen Underwood can be reached at [email protected]