UNC police introduce therapy dog, ask for help naming it

UNC police introduced the newest member of its staff Wednesday.

UNC police said a new Goldendoodle puppy will join the force as the department’s new therapy dog.

The addition marks the start of a pet therapy program initiated by the department.

“We’re incorporating a pet therapy program within the department to promote overall wellness campuswide,“ Community Service Officer Destiny Wylie said. “We’re confident the therapy dog will foster stronger connections and collaborations between UNC Police and the Carolina community.”

The unnamed puppy will begin pet therapy certification once she joins the department, which involves training in obedience and specialized techniques associated with therapy work.

Police say the dog will perform her assigned duties and remain in the care of a designated handler at all times, even during off-duty hours.

The dog currently has no name, and the department is asking for help to name the dog.