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JAMESTOWN, NY (WNY News Now) – With mass school shooting plaguing headlines across the nation, local law enforcement in Warren County are trying to help relieve anxiety for students returning to class. To help, they are raising money to deploy a new therapy dog this fall.
“There were some tragic events that happened this past school year, and the sheriff and I came up with an idea to try and figure out a way we can help and we thought of a therapy dog,” explained Deputy Sheriff Josh Warmath.
Olive is Warren County law enforcement’s new tool to help students this fall.
She has already gone through extensive training, and is ready to help those in need.
“She is a retired guide dog, so she’s been trained on a lot of stuff. Basically she’s there to make you feel better,” said Warmath.
The Warren County Sheriff and City of Warren Police are relying on donations to help pay for Olive’s care. On Thursday, the agencies hosted a charity baseball game in Jamestown.
“We’re always looking for donations. Obviously the game itself is to support Olive and help with her fees and costs. The Sheriff’s department, we’ll take donations,” said Captain Jeff Doughtery.
As of late, there has been a negative stigma surrounding law enforcement, so by having Olive, the department hopes to break that. So far, they are already seeing results.
“Me personally, I’ve seen it just walking around the fairgrounds. People react to her, and then they react positive to us,” said Warmath.
Those looking to make donations can contact the Warren County Sheriff’s Office at (814) 723-7553.
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