2 Pups Join SMC's Therapy K-9 Program

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — San Mateo County is adding two more Goldendoodles to its growing roster of therapy dogs, building on a program the sheriff's office launched in December.

Maverick and Teddy, now 8 months old, recently joined their brother Ben on the force to perform community outreach and comfort people in crisis. The specially-trained pups each have their own Instagram accounts, chronicling their work with the Therapy K-9 Program created by Sheriff Christina Corpus.

"These brown bundles of fluff make eyes light up and bring smiles to the faces of people in our community, many of whom are undergoing a crisis and need our help," Corpus said. "Our therapy K-9s put minds at ease and help build bridges in our community."

The sheriff's office said Ben, the group's founding member, recently completed his 100th deployment at community events and local schools, along with his handler, Deputy Danielle Martinez. The sheriff's office has also tapped Ben's talents during forensic interviews to provide some comfort to victims.

Maverik will join Deputy Andrea Dion on the Coastside, while Teddy will join up with Deputy James Hajik on the Bayside.