Lincoln Land College Adds Therapy Dog to Police Force

The campus police department in Springfield welcomes a new therapy dog to provide emotional support for the community.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Dogs

Lincoln Land College Adds Therapy Dog to Police Force

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Lincoln Land Community College has officially added a therapy dog named Everest to its campus police department. The new addition aims to provide comfort to students and staff while serving as an ambassador for the department.

Why it matters

The presence of a therapy dog is intended to foster a more welcoming and supportive campus environment. The dog helps effectively reduce stress and anxiety for those working and studying at the college.

Everest replaces the retired therapy dog Pawfficer Ember, who served the campus for 3 years. The program is supported by local sponsorships from West Lake Animal Hospital and Pup E. Tails Pet Grooming.

The players

Everest

Everest is the new therapy dog for the Lincoln Land Community College police department who provides emotional support to the campus.

Chris Russell

Chris Russell is the Police Chief at Lincoln Land Community College who administered the oath of office to the new therapy dog.

Pawfficer Ember

Pawfficer Ember is a retired therapy dog who served the Lincoln Land Community College police department for three years.

The details

Police Chief Chris Russell officially administered the oath of office to Everest, who signed the document with a pawprint. This initiative continues the college’s commitment to community-based policing and student wellness.

August 2026: Pawfficer Ember retired after three years of service.
October 26, 2026: Everest was sworn into office by the campus police department.

Culture Shift

This move follows the growing trend of universities utilizing therapy dogs to support student mental health and improve law enforcement relations. By formalizing these roles through oaths of office, institutions are signaling a shift toward community-centered policing models.

Students and faculty at the Springfield campus can expect to interact with Everest during daily routines and campus events. This presence offers a tangible resource for those seeking a moment of calm during stressful academic periods.

The takeaway

Integrating therapy animals into public service roles offers a low-barrier method for organizations to improve the emotional well-being of their community members. Organizations looking to implement similar programs should consider securing corporate sponsorships to manage the ongoing costs of care.