PRESS RELEASE

City of Porterville                                                                                          
291 N. Main Street
Porterville, CA 93257
www.ci.porterville.ca.us/newslist.php

For more information contact:
Yuriko Velarde, Administrative Analyst
yvelarde@ci.porterville.ca.us

May 12, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PORTERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT WILL BE GETTING A FACILITY WELLNESS SERVICE DOG

At its meeting on May 2, 2023, the Porterville City Council approved the purchase of a Public Safety Facility Wellness Dog for the Porterville Police Department. The Facility Wellness Dog will assist City staff and victims of crime in dealing with traumatic events and will be another tool for addressing mental health. As part of the Board of State and Community Correction (BSCC) Officer Wellness and Mental Health Program, the Police Department was awarded $46,000 in grant funds to be utilized for the purpose of improving Officer wellness and mental health. A portion from the grant funds has provided the ability to purchase the Facility Wellness Dog, which will expand on the resources already being provided and will be a great asset for the Police and Fire Departments in their day-to-day public safety operations.

The Facility Wellness Dog will be trained to perform service dog commands, which will enhance therapy, promote participation, and reduce anxiety and stress for public safety personnel. The Facility Wellness Dog will also be used during investigations involving children or adults involved in violent or traumatic events to reduce anxiety and increase communication with investigators. The emotional support of the Facility Wellness Dog will help first responders deal with the physical, mental, and overwhelming challenges of everyday exposures.