An emotional support dog is the newest member of the Ridge Meadows RCMP.
Loki, a three-year-old Accredited Facility Dog will be providing wellness support of RCMP members, in addition to city employees who have to deal with critical and traumatic files – after officially passing its probation period.
Maple Ridge will be one of the first municipalities to extend the services of an Accredited Facility Dog to city employees.
Loki's role will be to help improve mental and physical well-being, plus comforting employees after traumatic incidents and participate in employee events.
Alysen Cox, Loki’s primary handler at the RCMP detachment, said they have been wanting to bring an Accredited Facility Dog to their team for a long time.
"He is truly perfect for this role and my heart is full knowing he is doing what he was meant to do," said Cox, noting that Loki’s interactions—from playtime to simply laying on someone’s lap — have already made a difference in the lives of staff at the detachment.
Officer-in-Charge of the Ridge Meadows RCMP, Superintendent Wendy Mehat said she is thrilled to have Loki join their detachment.
"Policing can be very demanding and having Loki offers a source of comfort to our officers and staff," she noted.
Loki is part of the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society, PADS, Avengers Litter, and joined the Ridge Meadows RCMP team this past summer.
City of Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy said Loki is a shining example of how innovative programs can have a meaningful impact.
"His support to RCMP staff at the detachment is extraordinary, and I’m so proud to see this partnership with PADS come to life. It will be welcome support from other City staff who deal with difficult files," he said thanking PADS for their ongoing support in making the program a reality.
