Ezmae accepts a treat from her handler, UW-Milwaukee Police Officer Mindy Wucherer, during a swearing-in ceremony as Interim Police Chief Brian Switala says a few words. At left is new officer Grayson Smith. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
Ezmae, a 1-year-old golden retriever, has joined the UWM Police force as its first K-9 officer. She was sworn in at a ceremony with her handler, Officer Mindy Wucherer, at the UWM Student Union’s Fireside Lounge earlier this month.
Ezmae is a certified facility-trained dog, a type of service dog specializing in an educational environment. Her training allows her to assist students, staff and anyone else suffering from depression, being a crime victim or dealing with any type of stressful event.
Wucherer, who has been with the UWM Police Department for nearly seven years, proposed a facility/comfort K-9 program for UWM police to help the department’s mission of serving the needs of an engaged university community.
“During the past few years, I noticed police agencies started specifically incorporating comfort dogs in their departments,” Wucherer said. “I began researching the benefits of these types of K-9s and found nothing but positive feedback from departments that implemented them. I am grateful UWMPD and the university agreed that a facility/comfort K-9 would be a great addition to our campus.”
Partners with Paws donated Ezmae to UWMPD and is also donating the training needed for her certification.
Ezmae and Wucherer will attend various campus events to greet the UWM community, including a Fall Welcome meet-and-greet on Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UWM Student Union. Ezmae will have another meet-and-greet at Campus Safety Day on Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Spaights Plaza. Ezmae will gladly welcome cuddles, behind-the-ear scratches and belly rubs.
Written by Angelica Duria
Link to original story: https://uwm.edu/news/uwm-police-welcome-first-k-9-officer-ezmae-the-comfort-dog/