We are excited to announce a new initiative at our school that aims to create a positive and supportive environment for our students. We are pleased to introduce, Holly, the Portsmouth Police Department’s comfort dog who will be accompanied by our School Resource Officer, Officer Wes, to our schools.
Holly is a certified and trained therapy animal that has been carefully selected for its gentle temperament and ability to provide comfort and support. The dog will be working alongside Officer Wes to enhance the overall well-being of our students and contribute to a positive school atmosphere.
Research has shown that interaction with therapy dogs can have numerous benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and promoting a sense of safety and security. They will be available to interact with students in designated areas of the school, and Officer Wes will ensure that all interactions are safe and positive.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this program, please reach out to your Building Principal. Please read below for the announcement from the Portsmouth Police Department.
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Welcome Holly!
New Department Member Announcement!!
The Portsmouth Police Department is excited to announce our newest member, our first-ever comfort dog! Our new comfort dog, Holly, has worked very hard to complete her training and is excited to start in her new position. After being sworn in, Holly will be assigned to work together with Officer Westley Lemar who is the department’s school resource officer for the middle and elementary schools. Officer Lemar is looking forward to introducing Holly to all of the students and staff! The presence of comfort dogs in schools has been shown to enhance positive relationships between the police and the school community, and we are very excited to begin this new partnership.
Holly is a 16-month-old lab who was gifted to the Portsmouth Police Department by the New York organization “Puppies Behind Bars”. “Puppies Behind Bars” is an organization that trains incarcerated individuals to raise service dogs for wounded war veterans and first responders.
Officer Lemar has been training in New York for the past 2 weeks with Holly who is extremely friendly and well trained to provide comfort and companionship in all types of situations. Holly will also be available for special situations outside of the schools to provide connections with residents, as well as reduce anxiety and increase communication with victims and witnesses.
The Comfort Dog program will be funded completely through community donations.