New wellbeing support dogs for Cleveland Police
"Sol has such a lovely nature that he is here to bring joy to people's lives, so now he may be able to help even more people." - Hilary Brown, Sol's handler.
Two new dogs have joined Cleveland Police as wellbeing and trauma support dogs.
The dogs are part of the 'Oscar Kilo OK 9' service, and are the first support dogs for the Cleveland force. Their job is to interact with officers, and provide talking points, create a welcoming
atmosphere, and bring joy to officers feeling pressure and stress.
Sergeant Garry Botterill, of the National Police Wellbeing Service, said of the Wellbeing and Trauma Support Dog Project: “Police officers and staff do a demanding and sometimes dangerous job, and in many roles are frequently exposed to trauma. Over recent years, police forces around the country have recognised the value of dogs in helping officers and staff with their wellbeing.”
Bella, a one year old labrador, and Sol, a nine year old poodle, received their official 'OK 9' wellbeing jackets at a launch ceremony held on Monday 26 July. The dogs' handlers are both trained in First Aid Mental Health and Peer Support, and are available to officers and staff who might require signposting to other services within the Force on a voluntary basis.
Amanda Buck, Bella's handler, said of Bella's temperament: “Bella joined our family in December 2020. The Community Centre was operating a scaled down service during the pandemic, so Bella attended work with me daily.
“I noticed that Bella would gravitate towards people who were anxious or stressed. She showed compassion and her behaviour changed towards each individual. Bella greets some people with excitement, others with a submissive roll over and others a slow snuggle.”
Sol's handler Hilary Brown commented: “I was so pleased to hear of this national initiative of having wellbeing dogs. I was approached by Inspector Phil Spencer, who had heard about Sol, to see if we would be interested in this. I said yes straight away as the pressure on officers and staff is immense and I hope that Sol can help.”
Cleveland police inspector Phil Spencer added: “It’s proven that the presence of a wellbeing dog has a calming influence and through interaction with Bella and Sol, we are hoping to encourage officers and staff to engage and speak about mental health and wellbeing.
“Both dogs are great to work with and we are delighted to be welcoming them to the team.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
