SMPD Mental Health Unit Training, Deploying Therapy Dog

The San Marcos Police Department has a new member in training, and he’s cuddlier than the average police officer.

Sheldon Lee Cooper is a border collie mix assigned to the San Marcos Police Department Mental Health Unit as the new therapy dog in training. He will assist officers on calls for service by attempting to decrease anxiety and stress that people in crisis may be experiencing.

When requested, Sheldon will also assist mental health clinicians at the Scheib Center as they meet with clients who may be experiencing anxiety or other stressors.

Sheldon and his handler, Officer Joyce Bender, will attend a training program at the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and Paws and Stripes Academy Investigative Therapy Dog Training in Cocoa, Florida.

The training will prepare Sheldon and Bender to complete further requirements to be a nationally registered therapy dog team.

“The introduction of Sheldon and the Therapy Dog Program to the SMPD Mental Health Unit will be an excellent asset in the unit’s goal of better serving the community,” Bender said.

Sheldon has already made a difference with employees around the Police Department and with the clients and employees at the Scheib Center. He has also helped people in crisis during recent calls for service.

Bender presented the Therapy Dog Program to the department last fall and donated Sheldon to SMPD when the program was approved.

People are invited to follow Sheldon on the San Marcos Police Department’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/smcpa. 

For more info on the benefits of a therapy dog and which breeds make the best, here’s a helpful guide.