Say ‘hello’ to the OK9 wellbeing and trauma support dogs and their handlers in police forces in the North East of England.
These dogs are all members of the national OK9 wellbeing and trauma support dog network and are able to attend the aftermath of a major incident to support those affected by trauma. They also get the opportunity to attend national events and to support our wellbeing outreach service.
Bella’s owner is Amanda Buck, Centre Manager of Breckon Hill Community Centre, a small locally-run charity that responds to community needs.
Amanda delivers a crisis intervention programme that predominantly focuses on the mental health and wellbeing of all her community members. She and Bella are volunteering with the OK9 wellbeing and trauma support dog project for Cleveland Police.
Dave's handler, Emma, works within the wellbeing team as an admin assistant.
Emma said: "I am a big believer that animals have an amazing impact on not only people’s physical health but their psychological health also. I have owned pets for many years and have seen the benefits personally of this. When I was younger, I wasn’t very well and was lucky enough to have a Pets As Therapy dog which helped me through my medical journey.
"As well as just becoming an OK9 dog handler, I have recently become the SPOC for the wellbeing dogs within Cleveland Police and I am very excited to see what we can achieve as part of this programme."
Sol’s owner, Hilary, volunteers for Blue Cross as an educational speaker and Sol is a Blue Cross education dog too.
Hilary said: “I was so pleased to hear of this national initiative of having wellbeing dogs. When asked to get involved I said yes straight away as the pressure on officers and staff is immense and I hope that Sol can help. I find that my pets provide me with a lot of emotional support at times. He passed his assessment with flying colours.”
Obi’s handler is Chris Hunter who works as a training administrator at the LDC Grangetown.
Obi is a happy dog and always wiggles with excitement when he meets new people. Obi loves a fuss and loves being the centre of attention.
Ben’s handler, Claire, is a PCSO for Durham Constabulary, she has been a PCSO for 15 years and uses her dogs to deliver school and community engagement. Claire thoroughly enjoys her role as an OK9 handler, seeing how much people enjoy our visits makes the job worthwhile.
Claire said: "Ben is a wonderful dog that loves fetching his ball to anyone who needs cheering up, officers and staff always comment on how lovely Ben is and what a difference he makes to their day."
Reggie’s handler, Claire, is a PCSO for Durham Constabulary, she has been a PCSO for 15 years and uses her dogs to deliver school and community engagement. Claire thoroughly enjoys her role as an OK9 handler, seeing how much people enjoy our visits makes the job worthwhile.
Claire said: "Reggie is a funny dog that cannot help but make people laugh, he is a very lively little dog that is always happy and makes everyone around him happy too."
Bert's handler, Joanne, retired as a police officer after 30 years' service in 2021 and now works part-time as a crime training supervisor.
Joanne said: "In my previous role, I was always interested and involved with the wellbeing of staff and even had the wellbeing room named after me when I retired.
"In my current role, being based at the training centre is ideal for Bert to meet many students and staff across the force. It never ceases to amaze me the difference having a dog in the workplace has on so many people."
Cindy’s handler, PC Ian Sweeney, also handles Logan a general-purpose police dog. Both Ian and Logan won the North East Region Award for Bravery after they we both shot whilst detaining an armed suspect in 2019. Cindy is an ex explosives, search, and detection dog.
Ian adores animals in particular dogs, who never have a bad day. They are always pleased to see you and lift your spirits in every sense. They have incredible healing powers and have assisted Ian many times through this demanding role as a police officer.
Doug's handler, Joe Slater, is a patrol officer working for Humberside Police.
Ernie's handler, Mel, has been a police officer for 20 years and is currently a detective within MOSOVO.
Mel said: "During COVID lockdown I had a period of time off work due to stress and anxiety. I was unable to see anyone and Ernie became my wellbeing dog.
"He senses moods and knows when you just need a cuddle. Ernie is a new wellbeing dog and we are both looking forward to meeting people. I have friends and family who are not dog lovers but they all love Ernie once they have met him."
Maggie's handler, DC Andrea Cowey, said: "I am detective constable within the major crime team in Humberside Police. I have been a serving officer for almost 27 years. I am a mental health first aider, peer to peer supporter, and wellbeing champion. I am a FLO and a specialist suspect and victim/witness interviewer. I am also a volunteer for Police Care UK and an ambassador for the police treatment centres."
Margot's handler, DC Andrea Cowey, said: "I have two OK9 dogs and love taking the dogs to work with me. They bring so much joy wherever we go. I have lost count of the amount of people who say ‘I feel so much better now’. I recently had both of the dogs with me at the wellbeing wagon and it was definitely double trouble. They are both so different, Margot is very bold and confident and Maggie is much quieter, they each found their own targets."
Norma's handler, Christine said: "I work for Humberside Police as a detective in the major crime team. Norma is a cheeky hound but will be your best friend if you have a ball. She loves attention and likes to show off all her tricks."
Pepper's handler, DC Gregg Anderson, works in the digital forensics unit as a victim ID/CAID officer.
Gregg said: "I’ve 20 years’ service, of which the majority has been in a stressful environment dealing with child sexual abuse offences. I am a peer supporter and I’m incredibly proud to have my nine-year-old Cockerpoo Pepper involved as a wellbeing dog.
"He’s a wonderfully natured boy who I’m sure will bring a lot of smiles to peoples face’s when he goes on his visits. I’m sure he’ll be able to help people who are having a tough time of it, as he has a very calming influence (once he’s stopped tearing around after his ball.)"
Rosie's handler, Helen, is a police constable in Humberside Police, based in driver training. Helen has almost 30 years’ service.
Helen said, "I’ve been lucky enough to do many specialisms firearms, traffic, etc. but not the dog section. So, when the opportunity came up to be an OK9 dog handler I jumped at the chance. I have four of my own dogs and am a keen supporter of wellbeing, being a TRiM co-ordinator and a peer supporter. Life is better with a dog.”
Saxon's handler, Laura Delaney, is a police office at Grimsby Police Station on patrol, and also a public order trainer for the force.
Laura said: "Saxon is a one year old big fluffy puppy. She absolutely loves people and loves cuddles. She is learning every day and she would love you to be part of her journey. She will definitely make people feel happy and content, sitting by their side. Saxon is just beautiful inside and out."
Zero's handler, PC Helen Johnson, is working within the Southbank Locate Team with Humberside Police.
Helen said: "I am looking forward for Zero to start his role as he loves people and attention. Zero is a rescue dog that we have had from him being around seven months old. He was worried by a lot of things when we got him, but he has come a long way since then and one thing that hasn’t changed is he never fails to make people smile. He will be a worthwhile distraction from a busy working day and will lift people’s spirits."
Freankie's handler, Christopher, said: "I am a PC in CID in Scunthorpe . I am looking forward to supporting others with my dog Frankie, he loves affection and will instantly bring a smile to anyone he meets"
Alfie's handler, Talia, said: "Dodge is such a happy little boy who wiggles with excitement when he sees people. He adores people and is always aiming to please. He loves to share and show everyone his toys and teddies to make them happy. I am looking forward to taking Dodge round the stations within the OK9 Scheme and to see the kind of impact he can make in the force."
Cooper's handler, Ian, is a sergeant in the professional development unit within Northumbria Police. Ian has over 20 years' experience and his current role involves supporting and developing new student officers as they begin their deployment on response teams across Gateshead and Newcastle.
Ian said: "I am a newly qualified OK9 volunteer wellbeing dog handler and looking forward to my first deployment with Cooper. I am also excited to take Cooper to the University where our new cohort of student officers can meet him as they get ready to make the leap onto the streets.
"Cooper is a friendly chocolate brown Cocker Spaniel who is already very popular with officers and staff. They all love to meet him as they go about their daily business and he is already in demand!"
Rolo's handler, Alan Cox said: "I have recently changed role in force (onto the recruitment team) and have been fortunate to take PD Rolo with me. I have been part of the OK9 network for around 18 months, previously with PD Ted who is now an accredited drugs dog, and now with PD Rolo as of October 2022.
"PD Rolo is quite shy, but loves cuddles and always brings the workplace to a stop when he enters a room. He is in high demand and really enhances the wellbeing stance within the force."
Ted's handler, PC Alan Cox, is a police officer working on the community engagement team.
Alan said: "Ted was purchased by our force wellbeing team to help with morale and encourage conversations between colleagues during his visits. He also does some external visits to various community groups.
"Ted has made a huge difference internally, so much so we can’t keep up with demand for him. He is turning into quite the local superstar. The main thing that I need to make colleagues aware of before a visit, is to hide their lunches when he is about."
Sam lives with Giles Evans, Giles said "I am an ex officer, with over 33 years police experience and my role as a volunteer wellbeing dog handler allows me to contribute to the wellbeing of staff. I am really looking forward to being involved with OK9.
"Sam is a two year old loving spaniel, Northumbrian born and bred who enjoys long walks, especially countryside ones. He lives with my other two spaniels and loves anyones company."
Summer’s handler, Gemma, said: "Working as a current police staff employee, I understand the challenges of working for a blue light service, I recognise the fantastic work that our colleagues do and at times how they selflessly put the needs of the public and others before their own.
"Being a wellbeing dog handler gives me the opportunity to give something back to all the great people who work for Northumbria Police. Doing that with Summer provides an environment where people feel happy and safe to be able to engage and speak openly about their wellbeing."
Penny's handler is Amy Smith who works as an analyst for Northumbria Police.
Amy said: "I love being a OK9 dog handler with Penny because it is great to bring a smile to peoples face when they are having a bad day or a tough time in general. Penny absolutely loves all people and loves to have a cuddle and a play, seeing the joy she brings is very rewarding for myself."
Monty's handler is Amy Rutherford. Amy is an external wellbeing dog handler, working in risk for a local software technology firm who has recently qualified as a mental health first aider.
Amy said: "I am looking forward to contributing to the wellbeing of staff in the public sector too, through the joy of canines!
"Monty and I love to enjoy the countryside and like to travel in our 4x4 with roof tent. He is the perfect adaptable boy and has a huge impact on my own mental wellbeing. It’s about time he made himself useful in society, and can’t wait for him to energise the souls of others."
Whispa’s handler, Brad, has over 30 years policing. He has spent time on road policing and over 16 years on the dog section. He had worked within NYP Federation as he is passionate about highlighting officer welfare and wellbeing, modernising the approach and services offered to our colleagues. Brad retired in May 2022 and is continuing to volunteer with OK9.
"I am Donna, I am the Head of PSD in Nottinghamshire and Eze is our wellbeing dog. Eze comes into work most days and spends his time with different teams in the department. He makes a difference every day and I love seeing this. Staff love him and miss him when he is not there. He is very much part of the team and wider in Nottinghamshire Police. I would say he has his own fan club."
Toto’s handler, Chelsea Stringer has been a dispatcher in the force control room at South Yorkshire Police for the last 5 years.
Chelsea said: "Toto is a very happy and playful dog and is always wanting attention and never leaves a room without a tummy tickle.
I believe he will make a huge difference to people’s mood as he is a very social dog and he always starts a conversation with his unique look."
"I am Kay Fitzgerald and I’m a sergeant in Sheffield’s safer neighbourhood services. I am passionate about staff wellbeing so I jumped at the chance of being part of OK9. I knew Dexter would love it and that his happy, relaxed personality would rub off on people in the workplace. I love taking Dexter to work and seeing so many people smile. Having a dog in the workplace encourages conversations in relation to wellbeing."
Eva's handler, Steve, is employed in the training department, his core role is that of a driver trainer, he is also a qualified teacher and coach.
Steve said: "In being an OK9 handler it allows me to share experiences and empathise with the plight of others, whilst sharing the joy the dogs bring. Eva is certainly more suited to a one-to-one or a small group setting and loves to cuddle when acquainted with people."
Dottie's handler, Annie, is a PCSO based within Cudworth Neighbourhood Team at Barnsley, providing support to local communities and help in overcoming ASB, whilst being a reassuring presence for local residents.
Annie said, "Being an OK9 handler is rewarding knowing I am supporting colleagues in what can be a stressful and at times traumatic role.
"Dottie is a permanently happy and enthusiastic little girl willing to go anywhere to help spread her joy. In her mind, any stranger is just a new friend in the making. Her presence in the work environment provides support and sometimes a well-needed break and distraction from everyday working life."
Honey's handler, Jemma said: "I have worked for SYP for 17 years in a number of roles including our force control room and previously as a PCSO / PCSO supervisor. For the last 6 years, I have worked within business change and innovation.
"I have been a wellbeing champion for the last 12 months. I got involved in that to support both staff/officers across the organisation in the challenges that they face on a day-to-day basis."
"My name is Jennifer Thorne and besides my usual role of secretary to our operations complex command team, I am also an OK9 coordinator and handler. Ken has been deployed within SYP since March 2022 and is making a world of difference to the people he meets.
"He loves coming to work and helping our colleagues, be it attending a briefing after a traumatic event, conferences, or general morale and wellbeing visits – he loves them all."
Lola's handler, Steve Dakin, is employed in the training department, his core role is that of a driver trainer, he is also a qualified teacher and coach.
Steve said: "Being an OK9 handler allows me to share experiences and empathise with the plight of others, whilst sharing the joy the dogs bring.
"Lola is a very sociable dog, who love to be around and to meet people. The breed is known as a velcro dog, due to the compulsion to be with and touching people."
Bernie's handler Nicola Himsworth is a response officer.
Nicola said: "Bernie is a laid back chap who just loves being around people, playing with his ball and getting a good cuddle – he’s also known to give out the odd kiss or two! He is a bundle of fluff that loves to make people laugh with his clumsy ways. We look forward to getting out and about the area, hopefully making those stressful days a little brighter. "
Mabel's handler is Andrea Silburn who works in the Serious Collisions Unit for South Yorkshire Police.
They said: "Mabel has always had something special about her. She has a very gentle, calming nature and her presence seems to give a relaxed ambience.
"Mabel is the most loving dog, highly intelligent and gains much attention when out and about, which she loves. We’re hopeful Mabel will be able to make a difference to people as a wellbeing dog."
Hershey's handler is Mike Senior. Mike said: "I am a Police officer working within our Performance and Governance team, conducting audits, victim service assessments identifying and recommending evidence-based improvements to the service we offer our communities.
"It is an honour to share my training and Hershey’s natural wellbeing traits to support our Police staff and officers conducting their challenging work.
Hershey provides an instant reduction to daily stresses, providing positive emotions of wellbeing and calming the minds of those who meet her."
Murphy's handler is Kate Maguire who is a response officer.
Kate said: "Murphy is a goofy and loveable giant who is always happy. He loves a good walk and enjoys zoomies when ever he has the space to run freely. Me and Murphy are new to OK9 but looking forward to the role and I feel he will really help lift peoples mood and offer a conversation starter that can lead people to discuss anything that may be on their mind."
Milo's handler is Luke Parkin an Intelligence Support Officer for South Yorkshire Police.
Frankie said: "I believe that being a an OK9 Handler gives me and my loyal companion the ability to provide re-assurance and a calm inviting space to talk to officers and staff across the force who may be struggling or having a moment where they are not feeling themselves. Milo is a great listener and although he cannot talk, he is able to provide the serotonin boost when we are down and may not be feeling ourselves."
Alba's handler, Katie, is a PCSO of six years attached to the Pontefract neighbourhood policing team, a a fraud ambassador, and a peer supporter.
Katie said: "Alba is a 16-month-old, Red Merle Border Collie, she is my side kick, and she has no idea the joy that she brings to me every day. Alba loves people and any attention they give her; she especially loves cuddles. We are looking forward to starting our wellbeing journey together and to make a difference to those around us."
Bubba's handler, Emma, is a police officer with nearly 20 years service. Emma is currently working in the initial police training department for new recruits. She is a qualified trainer, but is presently working on the support team, offering support and assistance to the students.
Emma said: "I chose to be an OK9 handler as it is important to recognise that people who work for the police are humans, with emotions, feelings and they have potentially experienced significant trauma.
"Bubba is friendly, caring, chilled out and loves a cuddle or a tickle. The front leg that Bubba has, has already broken and has been pinned and plated due to a birth abnormality. He lost his other leg five years ago and his resilience and perseverance is overwhelming at times. Hopefully he will inspire people that anything is possible. "
Nico's handler is Emma Whitcombe who as worked for West Yorkshire Police for 10 years and currently works in Bradford DIU as a Field Intelligence Officer.
Emma said: "Nico came into my life when work became a testing time and I truly believe he aided my recovery in ways no treatment could have.
"Our bond is unconditional but if he can get cuddles from as many people as possible… he will.
"Nico is 60kg with room to grow up to 80kg hence Leonbergers being a ‘giant breed’ but he is the biggest friendliest giant you’ll ever meet."
Gary’s handler, Lisa, is a dispatcher based at Dudley Hill Police Station. Lisa joined as a PC in 2007 and is trained as a welfare officer and a peer supporter.
Lisa said: “Being an OK9 handler allows me to support my colleagues and boost morale – it’s fantastic seeing how much the environment is lifted simply by putting a dog into the room. Gary loves people so he is perfect for this type of work."
Dory's handler, Dan, has worked for West Yorkshire Police for over 15 years and has worked across a number of roles in custody, NPT, CSI, NPAS and is now a duty manager running a call handling and dispatch team.
Dan said: "Dory was once described as having a “pure soul”. She loves being around people and divides her attention between everyone in the room - especially if they have treats.
"Dory loves working in her wellbeing role. It’s good to see how people interact with her when they are feeling low. She never fails to raise a smile."
Melissa is Halo's handler. Melissa said: "Halo is two-years-old and she has recently passed her assessment at Carr Gate, picked up her uniform and is now one of Calderdale wellbeing dogs.
"Halo was from a large litter (13) I have had her since she was born, she enjoys long walks especially when it involves a pub at the end. Halo lives at home with myself, her dad, her two big brothers and Koba the cat who regularly beats Halo up.
"A little bit about me, I have been in the police for seven years and recently been on my peer support course. Before joining WYP I graduated from The University of Chester where I obtained a 2:1 degree in counselling skills. I’m very keen to help with the welfare of Calderdale officers."
Gwen’s handler is Emily Jeffries who works in CDIU as a communications data investigator.
Emily said: “Gwen was a street dog in Romania until I rescued her last year. She loves life and makes people smile wherever she goes. She is constantly happy and will let you know when she wants a fuss by giving you her paw. You can really see the difference in people when they interact with her and it’s a privilege to be able to share her."
Ken's handler, Lee, is the district training officer for Kirklees and has been with West Yorkshire Police for just over two years, Lee is a TRiM practitioner and a peer supporter.
Lee said: "Ken is a five-year-old Japanese Akita, who just loves to be the centre of attention. He loves to mingle, meet new people, and loves big cuddles, he a cheeky boy and will let you know if you’re not paying him enough attention by howling at you."
Catherine is Indy’s handler. She has been a PCSO for 18 years and currently works within the early action team at Bradford District. Catherine enjoys seeing Indy lift people's mood and is passionate about her colleague's wellbeing. Catherine is a trained peer supporter.
Catherine said: "Indy is a one-year-old Fox Red Labrador. She is very playful and anyone's friend especially if they have a toy and willing to play tug or fetch and especially if you have food! She just loves attention."
Obi's handler, Lois, is a domestic abuse offender manager in Leeds District, working with multi agencies to help manage offenders in the community.
Lois said: "I have been involved with the wellbeing team as a peer supporter and TRIM Practitioner for over two years, and I am a trauma informed practitioner. I also support police officers as a Federation Rep.
"Being an OK9 handler is a great extension to the roles I already perform, and I am hoping that Obi brings as much comfort and joy to officers and staff as he does to me and my family. He is the happiest dog I have ever known, and his tail can clear a coffee table with one swipe."
Lola's handler is Gilly, a mother of three, three grandchildren and two fur babies. Gilly has 20 years’ service in the police, spending her entire career in the Kirklees District; initially on response, now in child safeguarding.
Gilly said: "I became a TRiM Practitioner in April this year as welfare is very important to me. I have lots of life experience and, having gone through it myself, a strong awareness of the menopause.
"Being an OK9 handler is fantastic, it’s like taking your best friend to work. Lola has had a lovely reception; she enjoys interacting and receiving cuddles. I’m getting that many visit requests she’s going to need her own federation diary."
Woody's handler, Katie, said: "I am a police constable for West Yorkshire Police attached to the domestic abuse team in Bradford I have been working for the force for around four years. I am a domestic abuse and honour based abuse champion. Woody is a 2-year-old smooth haired, black and tan miniature dachshund, he is my best friend and doesn’t understand how obsessed with him I am. Woody loves everyone he meets and loves attention especially tummy rubs. We look forward to our welfare journey together and I look forward to sharing to happiness Woody brings me with everyone else."
Willow's handler, Nicola, has been working for WYP for the last five years and currently works with high-risk domestic abuse offenders.
Nicola said: "I am a big believer that dogs help with mental health, and I have already seen a difference in this short time of being a welfare dog handler. Willow loves people and attention. She will be your best friend if you give her a treat or a belly tickle."
Zack’s handler is Michaela Butler. They were brought together in January 2021 after the loss of their previous companions. Michaela joined the police over 20 years ago.
Michaela said: "Zack loves to explore his surroundings but will happily let you give him back scratches and belly rubs. He is very polite and will offer his paws for any treat."
Dolly's handler is Annette Twigg. Annette said: "I am a retired police officer after serving 30 years mainly at Halifax and on the mounted section. I am now a Public Protection Review Officer at Halifax which I have been doing since I retired a couple of years ago.
"I live on a farm with many animals including horses, chickens, cats and dogs, including Dolly, a nine year old black labrador. She loves being around people and is a very affectionate dog who enjoys nothing more than to rest her head on your knee and have her head tickled.
"I know how much animals can improve our wellbeing and really look forward to being able to help my colleagues with Dolly."
Luna's handler is Emma Thompson. Emma said: "I am the OK9 SPOC for West Yorkshire Police and recently adopted Roxy from Thames Valley Police where she had a distinguished career protecting the Queen at Windsor as an explosives detection dog.
"I have a huge passion for wellbeing and having seen the impact that dogs can have on morale and mood so I jumped at the chance to get involved with a dog of my own.
"Roxy cannot wait to spend her retirement bringing joy to all of the officers and staff that we meet and I am proud to be there along side her!"
Digby’s handler is Barbara Ali (Babs) who has 17 year’s service mainly on the frontline but is now a district training officer. Babs loves all animals but has a particular soft spot for dogs.
Babs said: "I waited 37 years for my first dog and I couldn’t be more blessed that I got Digby. We have an indescribable bond. He is the best boy; loving, easy to train and has brought so much happiness to my life after going through some difficult times. I am so excited that I get a chance to share Digby with everyone at WYP and hopefully bring a snippet of that happiness to their lives too"
Jason’s human is Chris, a serving police officer with 23 years under his belt. Chris started his career in Chapeltown, moved to traffic, and now works in Bradford as a patrol Sergeant. After a few bumps in life, Chris decided what every sensible man eventually realises: the answer is a dog.
Chris said: "Jason arrived to bring stability, comfort, and joy… and he delivered all three, plus, a constant drift of white hair across the entire house, Strategic mud flinging after walks, usually centred in the middle of the kitchen and unconditional love and more emotional support than any therapist could legally provide. We are now an inseparable, slightly hairy double act. Life is messier, furrier, and infinitely better with Jason around."
Jet's handler is Rachael, who works as an IT trainer or about 17 years. I enjoy being in class and meeting new students. I am passionate about supporting both my colleagues and students and I have been a peer supporter for 2 years.
Rachael said: "Jet is Ozzy’s mum. She has an incredible ability to sense when someone needs comfort and her joy is contagious, always making you smile. As a family, we feel fortunate to have her and I am excited to share her with others, knowing she can make a positive impact on someone’s wellbeing."
Ozzy's handler is Rachael, who works as an IT Trainer. I enjoy being in class and meeting new students. I am passionate about supporting both my colleagues and students and I have been a peer supporter for 2 years
Rachael said: "Ozzy is Jet’s puppy. We have enjoyed watching him grow up and develop a love for muddy walks and going in the car. Ozzy loves attention and will let you know when he wants to play by dropping his ball at your feet. If you hide his ball, he’ll always find it! We are excited about the opportunity to make a positive impact on the wellbeing of those around us."