Monday, April 3 at 10 a.m., the Montgomery Police Department officially signed the adoption papers for a German Shepard rescued by the Kendall County Animal Control in March. The new dog, aptly named; Montgomery Leo (aka Monty for short), will join the team as the Department’s first comfort dog.
Approximately one year ago, Commander Liz Palko shared the idea of a comfort dog with Chief Phil Smith. The concept, a newer trend in law enforcement, is meant to provide emotional support and comfort to people other than their handlers or owners. “With the rise of mental health crisis and a better understanding of the emotional impact during tragedy, we know the need for Monty is greater than ever,” said Chief Smith. “Monty will receive special training to provide emotional support to residents following a traumatic incident and promote positive police and community interactions.”
Although the idea was a year in the making, it became a reality quickly when Kendall County Animal Control contacted Commander Palko to notify her of a litter of pups born at their facility. They sought local law enforcement agencies to consider adopting the four-legged friends. German Shepards are typically quick to train, intelligent, obedient, loyal, athletic, and even-tempered, making them perfect candidates for community police work. Commander Palko and fellow pup-loving officers worked to solicit local businesses to aid the Department with the adoption. Pet Supplies Plus (1794 Douglas Rd., Montgomery) has graciously agreed to supply Monty with a lifetime food supply. In addition, Orchard Road Animal Clinic will provide discounted medical services, and Sonya Ulrich of Good Dog Services, LLC. Training & Rehabilitation (6192 US-34, Oswego) will provide comfort dog training complimentary which he started recently.
Monty will reside mainly at the Montgomery Police Department (open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year), so he is always ready and able to assist in the field if needed. In addition, residents looking to meet Monty will have several opportunities throughout the year at special events and other meet-and-greet opportunities after he completes his training. Palko added, “While Monty lives at the Police Department, his purpose and mission is to help the entire community, and we hope dog lovers across town will consider Monty their own.”
The community can keep up with Monty on social media (Facebook and Instagram) by following the handle @montypdcomfortdog. Organizations, community members, and local businesses, are welcome to drop off new, unused toys, food, or treats at the police department for Monty. Additionally, Police Department encourages the public to consider donating and supporting the Kendall County Animal Control Facility and staff members who took such great care of Monty and his brothers the last two weeks while they secured safe homes. For more information or how to support Montgomery’s first comfort dog, email palko@ci.montgomery.il.us or call 331-212-9054.
—Montgomery Police Department