The Victim Services of Nipissing District says its canine trauma support program continues to comfort children and adults who experience trauma and provide comfort to victims of crime.
The work Chewie, the program’s yellow labrador retriever, does every day is seen as invaluable.
Chewie has become quite the celebrity in the Nipissing District.
He’s a four-legged hero in many people’s eyes, coming to their aid when they’re victims of crime or struggle with trauma.
“He makes a huge difference, we find, especially with children. So, if a child is going in an interview, they can be very nervous about speaking to a police officer,” said Gillian MacIntosh, K9 handler and trainer.
“Dogs have a very grounding effect on our emotions and since many people have a dog, they can really relate to having Chewie.”
Chewie also helps emergency responders with trauma and he’s an active member of the North Bay and District Critical Incident Stress Team Inc.
The K9 program started seven years ago when Chewie was donated by the Citadel Canine Society, a registered Canadian charity that trains and delivers PTSD medical service dogs to new military veterans and first veterans.
He went through two years of rigorous training with the society.
“From what I understand, there (are) only about five police services and victim services units in Ontario that have this program,” MacIntosh said.
It’s estimated Chewie interacts with and helps a few thousand people each year.
“We work out of the North Bay Police Service. We also work out of the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, but we’re also visiting multiple community agencies,” MacIntosh added.
Chewie is entirely funded through donations. From his veterinarian visits to transportation costs to his food, the bills rack up quickly. That’s why the Rotary Club of North Bay donated more than $5,000 to the program Monday afternoon.
Brings affection
“Just the affection the dog brings,” said Rotary Club of North Bay president Grace Doiron.
“Looking at Chewie’s eyes, he’s just so adorable and he latches right onto you.”
Chewie is nine years old and his retirement is coming in a few years. His little brother Toby will follow in his paw prints. Toby is currently in training.
But until that day comes, Chewie will still be around looking for scratches and maybe a treat or two after he provides love and affection to those who need it.
“Chewie loves his job,” MacIntosh added.
