Worcester County Launches Comfort Dog Collaborative

WORCESTER, MA — A new countywide program will expand the use of police comfort dogs during traumatic events, crises and community outreach efforts.

The Worcester County District Attorney's Office launched the Worcester County Comfort Dog Collaborative on Wednesday with participating municipal police departments. Funded through a U.S. Department of Justice Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant and Substance Use Program grant, the initiative will coordinate comfort dog responses across the county.

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The funding will support the training, coordination and deployment of comfort dog teams. It will also strengthen existing police programs and help departments establish new teams, according to the DA's office.

Trained dogs will be available to assist students, families and other community members during critical incidents. The program is intended to reduce anxiety, support people recovering from trauma and provide emotional support during difficult situations.

"The impact that these dogs have on people experiencing traumatic situations is unbelievable," Worcester County DA Joseph D. Early Jr. said. "Their presence brings an immediate sense of calm and reduction in anxiety and stress when it's needed most."

The grant will also support youth substance-use prevention programming across Worcester County.

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