The University of Wisconsin‑Eau Claire Police Department in Eau Claire, Wis., welcomed Mocha, a 10‑week‑old Labradoodle, as its first therapy dog in training at a swearing‑in ceremony on December 18. This initiative reflects a growing trend among universities, with many U.S. colleges and universities implementing pet therapy programs to support student well-being.

The single dog will serve as a comforting presence for students and faculty who visit the department, officials said. The move is part of the department’s effort to implement a therapy dog program on campus, which research indicates can significantly reduce stress and anxiety while improving mood and emotional regulation for students.

Mocha arrived at the department as a puppy with “puppy dog eyes and a wagging tail,” staff said, and is still learning what the role will require. “Mocha is very much a puppy right now. She doesn’t really know much about the therapy dog stuff yet,” the department noted when introducing her to the campus. Training is crucial, as therapy dogs typically undergo basic obedience training and socialization to ensure they are well-mannered and comfortable in various environments before certification.

Chief Amanda Carrier described the role the dog will play for people seeking help. “We have victims that come into our department to report crimes or just someone going through a hard day or perhaps a faculty member that may just be overwhelmed, that needs a little bit of time and just some puppy love,” Carrier said. The positive benefits of such interactions align with studies showing that therapy dogs can be particularly effective for individuals experiencing trauma.

Sergeant Renee Stoik, who is helping oversee Mocha’s early training and public visits, said the puppy has already prompted strong reactions among students and staff. “I’ve seen a lot of emotions. I’ve seen laughing. I’ve seen a little bit of crying. People are just so excited to have her here,” Stoik said. The emotional support that therapy animals provide can significantly impact the campus environment, helping to foster a sense of community and comfort.

Stoik outlined immediate steps for preparing Mocha for campus work: “Our first step is to take her through a puppy class, and then we’ll do a canine good citizen training,” she said. Those classes are intended to build the basic obedience and social skills required for visiting with members of the public. Passing the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test is often a recommended milestone for therapy dogs.

The department has positioned the dog to be a resource for people who come to the police station for a range of reasons, from reporting an incident to seeking a quiet moment during a difficult day. Staff plan to introduce Mocha gradually as she completes classroom and certification milestones, with the anticipation that her presence will provide relief and joy to students and faculty alike.

Community response at the swearing‑in mixed laughter and tears as students and faculty met the puppy, reflecting the emotional support the department hopes the program will offer. The department’s Campus Therapy Dog page on Givingday provides additional information about the initiative, and broader context on therapy animals is available in an overview published by Husson University.

Mocha remains in training under the supervision of department staff and volunteer handlers. The department said the puppy will move through planned classes and evaluations before taking on a regular schedule of campus visits.