Meet Rosie: New Bedford Police Department’s Newest Compassion Dog Officially Sworn In

New Bedford’s Police Department has gained a new member of their team who is nothing less than compassionate when it comes to her job.

On Friday, October 7th, Rosie the Compassion Dog was officially sworn in at 10:20 AM as New Bedford’s latest compassion dog providing comfort for those experiencing troubles with anxiety or struggling with mental health.

Veteran school resource officer Jeremy Demello is assigned as Rosie’s handler as she’ll be taking on the role of interacting with members of the public to provide comfort and therapeutic companionship.

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Reverend David Lima led the commencement with prayer, followed by Ward Six New Bedford City Councilman Ryan Pereira with some added remarks, and concluded by New Bedford Chief of Police Paul Oliveira. 

Rosie raised her right paw (with the help of her handler, Demello) under oath and has officially joined the New Bedford Police family.

"We have used dogs to pick up the scene and track people on the run, we have used them to find narcotics, weapons, bullets, and cadavers. Dogs have helped us to solve crimes and catch criminals, and for the longest time that was the only mission of the police. but that mission has changed, today the mission is not only to catch those crimes but also to comfort the victims and survivors who were left behind after those crimes have been committed. As the world is changing so to our roles as police officers and so to are the roles of dogs that we use in the field. Rosie's function is different but no less important." -Chief Paul Oliveira

The 12-week-old police dog was generously donated to the department by Kerry Buckley of Cove Angels Breeding and was also given a special package from Mellisa Raposo from Mellisa’s Pet Depot in Dartmouth and Fairhaven.

Welcome, Rosie, to New Bedford. It's comforting knowing your services will help those who could use your gentle touch during difficult times, or simply just in need of a hug.