We are excited to announce that PADS Accredited Facility Dog (AFD) Sydney has joined the Vancouver Police Department to work alongside AFD Lucca in the Victim Services Unit (VSU).
In partnership with the Pacific Assistance Dog Society (PADS), the Vancouver Police Foundation and its generous donors are very proud to provide funding for AFD Sydney and his career in law enforcement. Together with his hander, VSU Coordinator Sue Baker, AFD Sydney will provide the same calm and nurturing support to victims of traumatic crime as four-legged veteran AFD Lucca has for the last seven years.
The Vancouver Police Foundation and the Vancouver Police Department recognize the importance of going above and beyond to assist victims of crime and traumatic incidents. Research has shown that the presence of a professionally trained and accredited facility dog can help to mitigate a victim’s stress response, reduce anxiety, and provide a calming and grounding influence. This can lead to improvement in the victim’s mental health, and positively contribute to their ability to participate more fully in the criminal justice system.
“In our work in the Victim Services Unit we have seen the difference that AFD Lucca has made in the lives of so many,” explains VSU Coordinator, Sue Baker. “It’s our privilege to continue this legacy with AFD Sydney and to offer the best comfort, care and support possible to those impacted by crime and other traumatic incidents.”
AFD Sydney is a sweet, two and a half year-old yellow Labrador retriever. He loves any toy he can chew and is very fond of a good belly rub. AFD Sydney will have the chance to learn from the best before AFD Lucca enters retirement later this spring.
Welcome AFD Sydney – we’re so happy you’ve joined the VPD and we are proud to call you our colleague!
The Vancouver Police Foundation supports programs and initiatives that fall under one of four pillars: Youth Programs, Mental Health & Addictions, Community Outreach & Engagement, and Technology & Special Equipment. You can help build a safer Vancouver by donating to the Vancouver Police Foundation.
