Being a K-9 puppy poses a considerable challenge, especially for those in the early stages of their training.
The pivotal moment arrived on Monday, April 6, 2020, for Brody, the latest addition to the Bristol Police Department in Rhode Island.
On this significant day, Brody underwent his official swearing-in ceremony, a crucial event marking the formal commencement of his new role within the community.
However, given the notorious nature of Mondays, Brody’s induction unfolded in a rather unexpected manner.
Although undoubtedly eager to embrace his new responsibilities, Brody appeared more inclined to prioritize rest over the ceremonial proceedings. The 12-week-old chocolate Labrador, blissfully unaware, managed to sleep through the entire swearing-in ceremony. Officer Keith Medeiros, Brody’s partner, stepped in as his representative during the event.
The Bristol, R.I. Police Department’s ceremony was streamed live on their official Facebook page and quickly gained widespread attention. Despite the event’s significance, Brody, the adorable K-9, remained peacefully asleep on the desk while Police Chief Kevin Lynch passionately spoke about him.
Throughout the entire ceremony, Brody snoozed undisturbed, briefly waking only to strike a pose for a photo. Officer Medeiros, Brody’s handler, shared with The Dodo, “He plays really hard, and he sleeps really hard. When he’s not playing, he’s sleeping, which is kind of tough because he sleeps a lot.”
Despite Brody’s slumber, it didn’t detract from the charm, as he appeared incredibly comfortable and cute. The video, posted on Facebook, has garnered nearly a million views, with viewers praising the little K-9 for his endearing nap. One viewer humorously commented, “Better get your rest now, because your work is just beginning. Woof,”
Chief Lynch expressed, “This is a very big day for the Bristol Police Department and for our future. As soon as Brody wakes up, we will have a lot of successes ahead, and he is going to be a superstar for the town of Bristol. I can guarantee it.”
Brody stands as the inaugural Comfort and Therapy dog for the Bristol Police Department, a key participant in the newly launched initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the town’s residents while fostering stronger bonds between the community and law enforcement.
As detailed on the official Bristol Rhode Island webpage, the nomenclature of K-9 Brody holds a meaningful connection. The ‘B’ symbolizes the town of Bristol, and ‘Rody’ signifies Rhode Island.[1]
Hailing from Boonefield Labradors, a reputable breeder of comfort and therapy dogs based in Rindge, New Hampshire, Brody was generously donated to the town, embodying the spirit of this positive and community-oriented program.
Initially considering a bomb-sniffing dog, the police department ultimately embraced School Resource Officer Medeiros’ suggestion of introducing a therapy dog. Brody’s responsibilities will include community engagement, school and nursing home visits, and providing support to crime victims.
Therapy dogs, renowned for assisting individuals in managing stress, anxiety, PTSD, and a spectrum of emotions, play a crucial role in fostering community well-being. Brody’s presence appears to have fulfilled a significant need in the town of Bristol, particularly amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Medeiros expressed, “People are really stressed, especially in law enforcement. Just by walking in the police department with Brody, people immediately smile. They immediately get into a better place. They want to pet him, want to hug him, and it’s just a really good thing.”
The diminutive K-9 officer carries a considerable weight of responsibility, yet I am confident that he will navigate it flawlessly.
Exciting prospects lie ahead for him; all he requires is ample sleep and rest.
To keep abreast of little Brody’s adventures and view more of his endearing photos, feel free to follow his Instagram page.
A warm welcome to the force, K-9 Brody.
May your tenure on the team be marked by numerous joyful years, replete with treats, belly rubs, and restful sleeps.
References: [1] Town of Bristol, Rhode Island, Official Website. (2020, August 26). K-9 Brody – Town of Bristol, Rhode Island | Official Website. https://www.bristolri.gov/departments/police/public-safety-services/brody/