Bay Area K9 Therapy Dog Wins National Award In Texas

SAN MATEO, CA — A K9 named Rookie and a youth services officer flew to Texas to receive an award honoring the officer and the dog for being such a good boy.

But seriously, San Mateo Police Department K9 Rookie and Officer Allsion Adle won the 2025 National Association of School Resource Officers Safety and Support Companion Award at the NASRO Conference in Texas.

Youth services unit Sergeant Tracey Unga nominated Adle and Rookie for the award.

“It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate Officer Allison Adle and K9 Rookie for their outstanding contributions to the community of San Mateo. Through their unwavering commitment and innovative initiatives, they have transformed the relationship between law enforcement and the community while making a profound impact on youth within San Mateo,” Unga said.

K9 Rookie made history in 2021 by becoming the first therapy dog not only in the City of San Mateo but also the entire County of San Mateo. Officer Adle and Rookie are dedicated to fostering strong, trusting relationships with students and staff, responding to calls for service at various schools daily.

Adle created "Rookie's Room," a program addressing post-COVID student challenges like mental health and law enforcement-community divides. In partnership with the school wellness center, students can sign up for 15-minute mental health breaks with K9 Rookie. These sessions foster a safe space for students to decompress, bond with Rookie, and connect with Adle, strengthening youth-law enforcement ties. Over 2,500 students have participated.

“I am incredibly proud to congratulate Officer Allison Adle and her partner, Rookie, on receiving this well-served recognition. Officer Adle’s dedication to building positive relationships with the students and the community, alongside Rookie’s exceptional work as a therapy canine is a shining example of how compassion, professionalism and service go hand in hand. Their partnership is truly making a difference in the lives of our youth, and this award highlights their commitment to fostering a safe, supportive and welcoming environment for everyone. On behalf of the San Mateo Police Department, we commend them for their outstanding service and the invaluable impact they continue to have,” said Ed Barberini, SMPD police chief. ,