Calgary Police Service Welcomes Sadie as First Operational Stress Intervention Dog
The Calgary Police Service has taken a significant step forward in supporting the mental health and wellness of its members by introducing Sadie, the organization's first-ever Operational Stress Intervention Dog. This innovative program represents a proactive approach to addressing the unique psychological challenges faced by law enforcement professionals in their demanding roles.
A Specially Trained Companion for Trauma-Exposed Professionals
Sadie, a two-year-old black Labrador retriever, has undergone extensive specialized training to provide crucial emotional support for both sworn officers and civilian members of the Calgary Police Service. These specially trained dogs are designed to help trauma-exposed professionals in workplace environments by reducing physiological symptoms of stress and offering a calming presence during periods of trauma or crisis.
The program specifically addresses:
- Day-to-day operational stress experienced by police personnel
- Heightened stress levels following critical incidents
- Trauma recovery support for affected members
- Participation in training sessions and mental-health programming
A Cultural Shift in Policing Priorities
Calgary Police Service Chief Katie McLellan emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Policing is a profession rooted in service, courage and resilience, but it is also a profession that exposes our members — both sworn and civilian — to critical incidents, trauma and sustained operational stress over the course of their careers."
Chief McLellan further explained, "While our members show incredible strength every day, we recognize that strength also means knowing when to access support. This initiative reflects a larger cultural shift within policing, one where mental health is prioritized with the same seriousness as physical safety."
The chief noted that this program complements ongoing systemic work to strengthen psychological safety, improve support systems, and build a healthier organizational culture within the police service.
Rigorous Training and Collaborative Funding
Sadie represents an elite group of service animals, with only one in ten trained dogs being suited for this specialized type of work. She was bred and trained by B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs, undergoing 14 to 16 months of comprehensive puppy training that included obedience instruction and exposure to public places and crowds before advancing to specialized training.
The program received funding through a collaboration between Wounded Warriors Canada — a mental-health service provider for trauma-exposed professions including veterans and first responders — and Pulling Together for Mental Health, a Calgary-based rowing challenge that raises awareness and funds for veterans and first responders' mental health.
Addressing the Realities of Police Work
Chief McLellan spoke candidly about the psychological challenges facing police personnel, noting, "There's lots of PTSD now and we talk about it openly, not like many years ago when there wasn't that opportunity or safe environment to talk about that. There's lots of impact, there's lots of trauma, there's lots of violence."
The introduction of Sadie represents a tangible commitment to providing internal resources for members' recovery from stressful and traumatic incidents. This proactive approach acknowledges that while prevention work is crucial whenever possible, having dedicated recovery resources available is equally important for maintaining the long-term wellbeing of police service members.
This groundbreaking initiative positions the Calgary Police Service at the forefront of mental health support within law enforcement agencies, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the psychological demands placed on those who serve and protect the community.
