The Bellefontaine Police Department has added a new K9 to its ranks recently.
Charlee, a three-year-old female Bernedoodle, is the department’s second therapy dog and will work with Officer Doug Walters during the school year at Bellefontaine High School.
She is owned by Officer Walters, who has worked closely with her to complete her training and certification.
Charlee first completed the AKC Canine Good Citizen obedience training at Dependable Companions in East Liberty.
She then earned her therapy dog certification through First Responder Therapy Dogs, qualifying her to provide support to those in need.
Officer Walters expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m excited to have the opportunity to have Charlee with me at the schools and in the community. Adding Charlee and Raven to the BPD not only supports our community, but our first responders, too.”
Charlee and Officer Walters will join Officer Chiles and his therapy dog, Raven, in supporting the Bellefontaine City Schools staff, students, and the local community.
Together, they aim to offer comfort and emotional support to individuals facing stressful situations.
