The Antioch Police Department announced its newest recruit this week, a Labrador Retriever named Flo, who will provide comfort to officers, victims and community members.
The Antioch Police Department said a generous donation from the Antioch Lion’s Club led to the three-year-old canine being acquired.
Officials said Flo will enhance public safety by providing comfort to those in need.
Flo is a trained service dog from Supporting Independence through Teamwork Service Dogs in southern Illinois.
The organization specializes in canine therapy and provides visits to rehabilitation facilities, childcare centers, support groups and independent living facilities.
Flo, who has been training her whole life, will be sworn in at the Antioch Village Board Trustee meeting on October 23.
Antioch Police Chief Geoff Guttschow said he solicited the help of the Lion’s Club after seeing the positive impacts comfort dogs are having in police departments across the country.
Unlike traditional police canines trained to respond to apprehend suspects and assist with searches, comfort dogs like Flo serve a different role by providing emotional support where needed.
Flo’s purpose is for recovery and well-being. Dogs like Flo can help prevent burnout and improve overall officer morale, officials said.
“Policing is a high-stress profession. Evidence suggests that the presence of comfort dogs help reduce anxiety and stress levels among officers,” Guttschow said.
“To see the staff smiling as Flo approaches them with her tail wagging looking for some attention has made our building feel more like a home away from home,” he added.
Flo will also serve as a bridge between the department and the community to help break down barriers and make officers more approachable.
She will additionally be made available to victims and witnesses who have been exposed to trauma to create a less intimidating environment.
“The Antioch Lions Club has long been one of our greatest supporters, continually stepping forward to assist us with critical initiatives when funding may not otherwise exist. Their generosity knows no bounds,” Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner said.
“Through their support of our comfort dog program, they are helping to care for our community’s protectors while at the same time helping support people in their worst moments. I am incredibly grateful for their continued support and partnership, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in our shared goal of enhancing the wellbeing of our community,” Gartner said.
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