Scottsdale police seeking public help in naming new crisis dog
Dec 5, 2017, 4:25 AM
PHOENIX — The Scottsdale Police Department is asking the public to help name its new crisis response canine, who will replace a dog who died in October after serving nearly 10 years on the force.
The department said it has welcomed an 11-month-old chocolate Labrador to its Crisis Response K9 program. The dog will replace Fozzie, the department’s former Police Crisis Response Canine.
Fozzie was the nation’s first full-time crisis response canine and was a pioneer for public safety agencies, according to the department.
The Scottsdale Police Department said it has narrowed the dog’s possible names down to five: Churchill, Chase, Charlie, Chip and Copper.
Participants can vote online for their favorite name until Dec. 11 at 5 p.m.
The dog will continue Fozzie’s legacy in the Crisis Response K9 program, the department said.
It was donated last week by Tish Dittman from Zona Labradors and will be trained by Julie Banfill with Dogology.
“This noble canine and partner will comfort crime victims and witnesses and provide solace for people experiencing their darkest days,” the department said.
“In addition, this Crisis Response Canine will serve as a goodwill ambassador, help with community outreach, visit schools, and provide emotional support to our public safety professionals serving the community under difficult and stressful conditions.”