Sumner County Sheriff’s Office helping to turn shelter dogs into therapy dogs

GALLATIN, Tenn. (WKRN) — The Sumner County Sheriff’s Office is turning shelter dogs into therapy dogs.

At Benny Bills Elementary School, pure joy echoed through the halls and on the playground. “He is here just to bring joy, comfort to the kids, students, and staff,” said Kathy Vinson, Principal at Benny Bills Elementary School.

Stella and Charlie are the two newest hires at the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office.

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“[ Stella ] goes home with me every day and goes to work with me every day,” said Deputy Keith Maddox, Sumner County Sheriff’s Office SRO.

Stella’s handler, Maddox, said their only purpose is to provide comfort to the students. It’s an idea Maddox had several months ago as a way to build a bridge between the SROs and the students. “I’ve built a relationship with these kids at this school and the last thing I want them to feel is that I’m policing them and not a mentor.”

Vinson added, “We’ve had a few instances of students when they’re upset, and Charlie has been trained and will go and comfort them. He’ll go and put his chin on their lap.”

Not only does the program help the students, but a local animal shelter across the street as well. Both Stella and Charlie are rescues.

“It’s a win-win situation: it’s amazing for the dogs but then it’s amazing for us as a school,” Vinson said.

On top of loving to be petted, going down the slide is perhaps one of their best tricks.

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“Charlie has been a great addition to the school not only for our students but for our staff. They love him,” Vinson said.

The Sumner County Sheriff’s Office said the goal is to expand the program to around eight dogs across the school district. They are also thanking retired officer, Clint Hestand, for helping to make the program possible.

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