In 2023, UWPD became the first police department in Dane County to launch a therapy dog program. The goal of the UWPD Therapy Dog Program is to provide comfort in times of stress or crisis. Our therapy dogs are specially trained to be used in a law enforcement setting — including training that helps the dogs be comfortable around loud noises, lights and sirens, chaotic situations, etc. While our therapy dogs are used throughout the UW-Madison community (and beyond), we also use our therapy dogs internally to help UWPD officers and staff cope with stressful or traumatic cases.
Meet our Therapy Dog Teams!
K9 Dusty & Officer Barrett Erwin
K9 Dusty joined UWPD in fall 2023. She previously lived on the streets of Chicago with a pack of stray dogs. Cook County Sheriff’s Tails of Redemption program recognized what a smart, friendly, trusting girl she was and started her training as a therapy dog! Tails of Redemption gives individuals in custody the opportunity to train shelter dogs.
K9 Dusty is a “Super Mutt” and we think she is about three and a half years old. Dusty loves gentle back and chest petting. She is super gentle and friendly. Please stop us on the street and ask to meet her, or make a request for your office, building, or class.
Interested in having one of our therapy dogs visit your group or event? Please fill out the form below. If you have a specific question, send us an email.