South Kingstown Police Swear In First Compassion Dog Leo

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The South Kingstown Police Department welcomed a new four-legged member to the force, and he'll serve as the department's first compassion dog.

Leo, a 10-week-old Bernedoodle, was sworn in to the police force Thursday morning. Police said he will have two important jobs in the department.

First, he will the department's wellness ambassador and will be responsible for helping to keep South Kingstown police officers healthy and able to do their jobs.

"Stress takes an immense toll on our readiness as a department, and studies show that a dog’s presence can help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety, making Leo capable of doing work that few humans can accomplish," Police Chief Matthew Moynihan said in a statement.

Police said Leo will also play an important role interacting with members of the public. He will be available to work with crime victims and children who come to the station and will also be out in the community at schools, at the senior center and anywhere else he is needed.

Leo will be handled by Officer Bryan Monte.

Police came up with Leo's name after receiving nearly 1,000 suggestions for names from the public. The department narrowed down those names to four finalists and eventually chose Leo.

"Leo means law enforcement officer, and he's one of us," police said in a statement.

The department was recently gifted the Bernedoodle puppy from Cove Angels Breeding.

"In addition to donating the puppy, they are also providing his early training," police said in a statement. "We are grateful for their kindness and appreciate their generosity! This little guy is going to have a big job, and we have also received funding from AT&T to support our compassion dog program and ensure that he has what he needs to provide support to our officers and serve our community."