The Village of Antioch Police Department recently welcomed its newest recruit, but it’s her colleagues who are in training. Thanks to a generous donation from the Antioch Lion’s Club, Antioch police officers and staff are learning how a 3-year-old lab named Flo enhances public safety by providing comfort to those in need.
Flo is a trained service dog from SIT (Supporting Independence through Teamwork) Service Dogs in southern Illinois. The organization specializes in canine therapy and provides visits for rehabilitation facilities, childcare centers, support groups, and independent living facilities. Flo, who has been training her whole life for this moment, was sworn in at a Village Board meeting on November 13.
Police Chief Geoff Guttschow said he solicited the help of the Lion’s Club after seeing the positive impacts comfort dogs are having in police departments across the country. Unlike traditional police canines trained to respond to apprehend suspects and assist with searches, comfort dogs like Flo serve a much different role by providing emotional support wherever needed. While traditional police dogs focus on law enforcement, comfort dogs focus on recovery and wellbeing. Dogs like Flo can also help prevent burnout and improve overall officer morale.
“Policing is a high-stress profession. Evidence suggests that the presence of comfort dogs help reduce anxiety and stress levels among officers,” Guttschow said. “To see the staff smiling as Flo approaches them with her tail wagging looking for some attention has made our building feel more like a home away from home.”
Flo will serve as a bridge between the department and the community to help break down barriers and make officers more approachable. She will also be made available to victims and witnesses who have been exposed to trauma to create a less intimidating environment.
“The Antioch Lions Club has long been one of our greatest supporters, continually stepping forward to assist us with critical initiatives when funding may not otherwise exist. Their generosity knows no bounds,” Mayor Scott Gartner said. “Through their support of our comfort dog program, they are helping to care for our community’s protectors while at the same time helping support people in their worst moments. I am incredibly grateful for their continued support and partnership, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in our shared goal of enhancing the wellbeing of our community.”
