Meet The New Greenwich Police Facility Dog

GREENWICH, CT — The Greenwich Police Department recently welcomed in its new facility dog, Mason.

"Mason is an English Labrador with a big heart and an even bigger personality. He’s cuddly, gentle, and full of love, ready to bring smiles and comfort wherever he goes," police said in an announcement this week.

The dog came from ColdSprings Healing Paws Foundation in Ipswich, N.H. The foundation specializes in training and certifying dogs for therapy work, and training handlers and dogs to help those with special needs.

Police say Mason will join the department's Community Impact Section and be paired with Community Impact Officer Dan Paladino.

"Together, Mason and CIO Paladino will play an important role in strengthening our connection with the community - offering support, compassion, and a friendly paw to those who need it most," police said.

Before Mason can work full time, he'll have to complete 1,000 public access hours as part of his training, police explained.

During that time, Mason will learn specialized skills such as behavior interruption and deep pressure therapy, which will be paired with stress hormone detection. Police say this will allow Mason to recognize and respond to signs of stress or anxiety.