When local police officers encounter a stressful situation involving children, they're now equipped with a new tool to help bring the situation under control: plush dogs named after three Sault Police canines — Hektor, Red, and Ben.
“Sometimes our officers respond to incidents where a child has, unfortunately, witnessed or experienced something traumatic,” said Hugh Stevenson, Chief of Police, in a news release issued today. “Being able to offer them a stuffed police dog can provide some comfort.”
Below is the full news release from the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service:
In partnership with PUC Services Inc. and the Sault Ste. Marie Police Services Board, Sault Police cruisers now carry a new lineup of plush canines to comfort kids who might be dealing with a stressful situation.
“Sometimes our officers respond to incidents where a child has, unfortunately, witnessed or experienced something traumatic,” said Hugh Stevenson, Chief of Police. “Being able to offer them a stuffed police dog can provide some comfort.”
Various studies have shown stuffed animals can help children cope with trauma, stress, fear, and even pain by providing emotional and physical comfort.
While this initiative is not new, the new lineup of plushies resemble and are named after three Police Service Dogs on Sault Police’s Canine Unit: Hektor, Red, and Ben.
“PUC has partnered with Sault Police on safety initiatives in the past,” says Janis Gartshore, Manager, Safety & Ops Support, PUC Services Inc. “We are honoured to continue our partnership in a way that helps to support children who are experiencing trauma. It’s truly a wonderful initiative.”
Sault Police thank PUC Services Inc and the Sault Ste. Marie Police Services Board each for their generous contribution of $1,500 for the plush canines.