Say hello to Brody, the cute 12-week-old brown Lab who caused a stir online with his one-of-a-kind style at a swearing-in event. While other rookies are all eyes and happy tails during their oath time, Brody opted for a quick nap instead.
On April 6, 2020, Brody officially joined the Bristol Police Department in Rhode Island. The swearing-in event, a big deal for anyone taking on a new role in the community, is usually a major milestone. But for Brody, getting some shut-eye was the top priority!
During the ceremony, while Police Chief Kevin Lynch was delivering some heartfelt words, Brody remained in dreamland, snoozing peacefully on the desk. Officer Keith Medeiros stepped in as Brody’s substitute, holding down the fort while the little pup powered up with a nap.
The video that went viral, live-streamed on the Bristol Police Department’s Facebook page, melted hearts around the globe. Chief Lynch, not bothered by Brody’s nap, stayed hopeful about the puppy’s potential impact on the town. Comments poured in, cheering on the dozing recruit and giving him playful advice to stock up on rest for the upcoming adventures.
Brody isn’t your average police pup; he’s got a special role as the first-ever Comfort and Therapy dog in the Bristol Police Department. Gifted by Boonefield Labradors, his name is a nod to the town (the ‘B’) and Rhode Island (‘Rody’). While there was a thought of him doing bomb-sniffing duties, Brody discovered his real calling as a therapy dog, with a mission to bring the community and the police closer together.
Officer Medeiros noted, “People are super stressed, especially in law enforcement. Just having Brody around, walking into the police department, instantly puts a smile on people’s faces.” In the midst of the COVID-19 challenges, Brody’s company brings happiness and solace, showing that sometimes, a wagging tail and a furry buddy are all you need to lighten up someone’s day.
Brody goes beyond the usual K-9 duties. He visits schools, nursing homes, and offers comfort to crime victims. Dogs like Brody, doing therapy work, play a crucial part in helping people deal with stress, anxiety, and PTSD. He’s become an essential asset to the community.
As Brody starts his adventure with the Bristol Police Department, one thing’s for sure – he’s got the work-play balance down. As he keeps stealing hearts on social media, here’s to wishing K-9 Brody a career full of treats, belly rubs, and, of course, some good, peaceful naps. Sweet dreams, Brody!
