Facility Dog Howdy

In August of 2023, we proudly announced and welcomed our newest staff member, Canine Companions for Independence® Facility Dog, K9 Howdy.  Howdy is a full bred, 2-year-old, yellow Labrador Retriever.  We obtained Howdy from the generous donation by Canine Companions for Independence® (CCI), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that leads the service dog industry.  Howdy is a professionally trained assistance dog that works alongside his handler, Sgt. Valenzuela, in a service capacity to assist other people.  Howdy is a working dog that was specially chosen because of his calm demeanor and ability to work in a high-stress environment.  Howdy aids in the investigation of crimes, provides comfort to victims and witnesses during interviews and court proceedings, helps victims process grief and loss, lowers tension and stress of community members and staff after traumatic events, works with children to build relationships, conducts senior citizen visits and welfare checks, engages with the public during community events, and so much more!  Our Facility Dog Program plays a non-traditional role in supporting our mission to make a meaningful contribution to the quality of life in our community.