There is a new member of the police force in Montgomery, and he is only 3 months old.
On April 3, the Montgomery Police Department officially signed the adoption papers for a German Shepard puppy living at Kendall County Animal Control. The new dog is now named Montgomery – Monty for short – and is the department’s first comfort dog.
Comfort dogs provide emotional support and comfort to people other than their handlers or owners, police officials said.
“With the rise of mental health crisis and a better understanding of the emotional impact during tragedy, we know the need for Monty is greater than ever,” said Montgomery Police Chief Phil Smith in a press release. “Monty will receive special training to provide emotional support to residents following a traumatic incident and promote positive police and community interactions.”
Police Cmdr. Elizabeth Palko is the trainer for the 3-month-old puppy, who was born at Kendall County Animal Control with six brothers.
About a year ago, Palko shared the idea of a comfort dog with Smith, who supported the idea.
“I can’t take full credit for that because I was just the pushy one,” Palko said of bringing Monty on board.
While the idea was a year in the making, it became a reality quickly when Kendall County Animal Control contacted Palko to notify her of a litter of pups born at their facility, according to the press release.
“I found him first on the Kendall County Animal Control Facebook page,” Palko said. “Then the chief’s wife went down there, and we fell in love with this one so we brought him back to Montgomery.”
Palko said she sent out a survey and came up with the name Montgomery, saying it was a name everyone could support. Smith also supported the name.
Residents looking to meet Monty will have several opportunities throughout the year at special events and other meet-and-greet opportunities after he completes his training, officials said.
Monty will live mainly at the Montgomery Police Department so he is always ready and able to assist in the field if needed, officials said.
“He’s our dog,” Palko said.
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Judy Pochel is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.