San Diego, CA, February 5, 2026
The San Diego Police Department has introduced a groundbreaking wellness program incorporating therapy dogs to assist officers in managing stress and emotional challenges. This innovative initiative aims to enhance the mental health and overall well-being of officers by providing them with accessible support during high-stress situations. By employing therapy dogs, the department seeks to reduce anxiety and promote resilience among its personnel, recognizing the impact of mental health on effective policing.
San Diego Police Officers Find Stress Relief Through Puppy Therapy
San Diego, CA – In an innovative approach to mental health, the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) has introduced a wellness program that incorporates therapy dogs to help officers manage stress and emotional challenges. This initiative aims to provide officers with accessible support and promote overall well-being within the department.
Program Overview
The SDPD’s Wellness Unit has integrated therapy dogs into their support services, offering officers a unique and effective method to alleviate stress. These specially trained dogs are available to accompany officers during critical incidents, debriefings, and other high-stress situations, providing comfort and emotional support. The presence of therapy dogs has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mental health among first responders.
Comprehensive Wellness Services
Beyond the therapy dog program, the SDPD’s Wellness Unit offers a range of services to support the physical and mental well-being of officers and their families. These services include:
- 24-Hour Wellness Hotline: A confidential resource available around the clock for officers seeking assistance or someone to talk to.
- FOCUS Psychological Services: Free, confidential counseling services provided to all SDPD personnel and their families.
- Peer Support Program: A network of trained officers offering emotional support to colleagues during and after critical incidents.
- Family Wellness Day: An event designed to introduce new officers and their families to the department’s wellness resources and provide realistic expectations about the psychological impact of the job.
- Alcohol & Substance Abuse Program: Services addressing challenges related to alcohol and substance use, with connections to first responder treatment programs.
- Police Chaplain Program: Volunteers from various religious faiths offering spiritual and emotional support to officers and their families.
- Cordico Wellness Mobile App: A mobile application providing access to wellness information, articles, and programs, as well as direct contact with peer support officers, chaplains, and Wellness Unit members.
Background Context
The incorporation of therapy dogs into law enforcement wellness programs is part of a broader trend recognizing the importance of mental health support for first responders. Studies have shown that exposure to traumatic events can lead to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues among police officers. By implementing programs like therapy dog support, departments aim to address these challenges proactively and provide officers with the tools they need to maintain their well-being.
The SDPD’s initiative reflects a commitment to the health and resilience of its personnel, acknowledging that supporting officers’ mental health is crucial for effective policing and community safety.
Key Features of the SDPD’s Wellness Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 24-Hour Wellness Hotline | A confidential resource available around the clock for officers seeking assistance or someone to talk to. |
| FOCUS Psychological Services | Free, confidential counseling services provided to all SDPD personnel and their families. |
| Peer Support Program | A network of trained officers offering emotional support to colleagues during and after critical incidents. |
| Family Wellness Day | An event designed to introduce new officers and their families to the department’s wellness resources and provide realistic expectations about the psychological impact of the job. |
| Alcohol & Substance Abuse Program | Services addressing challenges related to alcohol and substance use, with connections to first responder treatment programs. |
| Police Chaplain Program | Volunteers from various religious faiths offering spiritual and emotional support to officers and their families. |
| Cordico Wellness Mobile App | A mobile application providing access to wellness information, articles, and programs, as well as direct contact with peer support officers, chaplains, and Wellness Unit members. |
FAQ
What is the SDPD’s wellness program?
The SDPD’s wellness program is an initiative that includes therapy dogs to help officers manage stress and emotional challenges, aiming to promote overall well-being within the department.
What services does the Wellness Unit offer?
The Wellness Unit offers services such as a 24-hour wellness hotline, FOCUS psychological services, a peer support program, Family Wellness Day, an alcohol & substance abuse program, a police chaplain program, and the Cordico Wellness Mobile App.
Why are therapy dogs included in the wellness program?
Therapy dogs are included to provide officers with accessible support, reduce anxiety, and improve mental health, especially during critical incidents and high-stress situations.
How does the SDPD support officers’ mental health?
The SDPD supports officers’ mental health through various services, including counseling, peer support, and wellness programs like the therapy dog initiative, aiming to address stress and emotional challenges proactively.
What is the significance of the Family Wellness Day?
Family Wellness Day is an event designed to introduce new officers and their families to the department’s wellness resources and provide realistic expectations about the psychological impact of the job.
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