Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
FARMINGTON — The Farmington police department is growing by adding the furriest director of emotional and mental wellness to their team.
On Tuesday, Snoop became the Farmington police department's newest hire: a black and white bernedoodle.
Farmington Police Department Chief Eric Johnsen said bringing on the dog is all about caring for his officers.
"That's a good boy. That's a good boy. There you go! There you go!" Johnsen said.
After tossing around the idea of bringing on a new teammate for some time, Johnsen decided it was time to add four paws to the roster who is on call and ready to give out free hugs and puppy kisses to officers.
That's true especially after officers come in from a tough call.
"Far too often, we forget there's a human being involved in that that didn't ask to be involved in that, and that's the police officer. And he has to somehow deal with that. What do you do with that?" Johnsen said.
First things first include making rounds and making introductions.
"The pup's gonna be there today. That'll make things so much better," said one team member.
Johnsen said he's looking forward to seeing Snoop lift up officers and serve as a department companion.
Little fluff puff of stress relief, you know?
– Lt. Brian Cooper
"Who knows what you just experienced. To be able to come in, pet a dog and throw a ball and have him follow you around. There's something therapeutic," Johnsen said.
Snoop will also help others.
"Different people that come into the department. There are victims that could also benefit," Farmington Police Department Lt. Brian Cooper said.
He said not all days are easy, but having Snoop around will make things easier.
"We deal with some heavy stuff. Some very serious issues, and it's nice to have something to lighten the mood. To help take the stress off. You know that's what a dog is," Cooper said.
As Cooper described having a dog around: "Little fluff puff of stress relief, you know?"
For now, Snoop will be staying with the chief, who is showing him the ropes including where the bathrooms are.
Once he's a little older, he will call the police department home.
"We'll let him stay here. There's somebody here 24/7. In and out. A graveyard cop needs him as much, maybe more than the daytime people," Johnsen said.
Day one, and you could say Snoop is already employee of the month.
"I feel like he's perfect. And he's got a great, calm disposition," Johnsen said.
