FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ohio — The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office welcomed its newest therapy dog to the team on Monday.
Sunny, a 6-year-old golden retriever, was sworn in following a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the 2024 Franklin County Fair.
According to the sheriff's office, Sunny was recognized by his handler for his potential as a therapy dog because of his gentle demeanor and playful interactions with children.
The sheriff’s office said Sunny finished his training and is ready to work.
Sheriff Dallas Baldwin said he's excited about the newest edition to the team.
"We are thrilled to welcome Sunny to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office," Baldwin said. "Our therapy dog program is designed to provide comfort and support to our community, and Sunny embodies the qualities we look for in a therapy dog. We have already seen the positive impact therapy dogs can have, and we are confident Sunny will continue this tradition of service and impact."
The sheriff’s office started the therapy dog program in 2017 at the suggestion of one of its deputies. The department's first therapy dog was Mattis K. Nine, a yellow Labrador retriever.
Mattis, a yellow Labrador retriever, was the first law enforcement therapy dog in Ohio and sixth in the nation.
Last month, Mattis died from end-stage liver failure. He was 7 years old.