Sheriff Rogers and K-9 Teddy Complete 240-Hour Law Enforcement Therapy Dog Training

Lenoir County Sheriff Jackie Rogers and K-9 Teddy have successfully completed 240 hours of Basic Canine Handler School for Law Enforcement Therapy Dog Training through East Coast Canine, Inc., in Rocky Mount.

Teddy will serve the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office as a resource for stress and trauma reduction, mental health support, witness and victim support, community engagement, and officer morale. Teddy will also be available to assist other departments and agencies throughout Lenoir County government. 

Sheriff Rogers stated that he felt so strongly about the program and its potential benefits that he decided to personally take Teddy and attend the training himself. 

“There is a great need in our community for mental health support, and Teddy will provide an additional tool to help support our employees, victims, witnesses, and the community,” Sheriff Rogers said. “I also believe this program will be a great tool for strengthening community relations.” 

Teddy recently celebrated his first birthday and has lived with Sheriff Rogers and his family since he was eight weeks old.

The 240-hour training was provided at no cost to Lenoir County. The program is conducted through Edgecombe Community College, with training provided by East Coast Canine, Inc. instructors Tim Braddy and Tyler Hayes. 

Sheriff Rogers expressed his appreciation to East Coast Canine, Inc., Edgecombe Community College, Sheriff Paula Dance, Deputy Curtis, and K-9 Barkley for their support and assistance throughout the training process. The knowledge and experience shared by the instructors and K-9 team were invaluable in preparing Teddy for his role with the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Rogers stated, “This training will allow Teddy to serve as an important resource for the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, Lenoir County government, and the citizens we serve.”