The Grayslake Police Department announced they have added a new police canine, who is “extremely friendly and engaging,” to be their department’s comfort dog.
The Village of Grayslake and the Grayslake Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 299 said they recently partnered with Canines for Comfort.
The police department received a golden retriever mix named Jake, who is a trained facility comfort dog.
FOP Lodge 299 agreed to sponsor Jake with the support of the Village of Grayslake to help provide relief to officers who encounter traumatic occurrences and stressful situations.
Jake has specific training that will be used to serve the Grayslake area community, including victims and witnesses.
Police officials say the presence of comfort dogs has been proven to improve mental health by lowering blood pressure, decreasing anxiety and fostering an environment of support and confidence.
Detective Amy Guzman volunteered to be Jake’s primary handler and trainer with Detective Michael Goers assisting as the secondary handler.
Jake is living with Guzman and her family. The canine will travel to and from work with Guzman each day.
Police officials said Jake “loves to play and is extremely friendly and engaging.”
Jake will attend various events and be out in the community, the department said.
Several other police departments in Lake County have recently added comfort dogs to their department.
In May, the Mundelein Police Department said a Golden Retriever puppy, named Millie, had been partnered with the department’s social worker, Stephanie Escobar.
The addition of the canine was made possible by a donation from the Mundelein Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association.