Madison, meet officer Frost, the Madison Police Department’s first-ever therapy dog.
Frost, a golden retriever, has been assigned to work with the department’s new peer support officer, a position created by MPD earlier this year to help with officer health and wellness.
Frost and Officer Brian Vandervest will work to provide comfort to officers who must respond to difficult incidents.
“He opens doors, he breaks down barriers. I think he’s going to be an incredible tool for helping officers deal with trauma,” Vandervest said in a statement.
Frost comes from the Wisconsin Academy for Graduate Service Dogs and has undergone three years of training for his role.
“One of his great gifts is his connection to people. Everyone gravitates toward him. He’s magnetic, and people just want to come and greet him,” Vandervest said.
The goal is to have Frost ready to begin work by June.
While not working, Frost will room with Vandervest and his family.
Frost will also be supported by Capital K9s, a volunteer-run organization that supports the expansion and maintenance of the department’s K9 unit.
The MPD uses eight dogs at its department to find missing people, apprehend suspects and more.
Dogs are used in a variety of ways to improve mental health. Madison’s Gunderson Funeral Home utilizes a dog named Elmer to help with grief.
