Wausau Pilot & Review
Wausau, WI – The Wausau Police Department is poised to continue its innovative approach to law enforcement and mental health support in local schools with the acquisition of a new therapy dog, thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin.
The department is seeking approval to accept $15,000 in Community Enhancement Grant funds aimed at replacing Badge, the beloved therapy dog set to retire in May.
Badge, a Flat-Coated Retriever, has been a fixture at Wausau East High School, where he served alongside School Resource Officer (SRO) Nick Stetzer. Introduced in the fall of 2017, Badge has become more than a pet; he is a crucial part of the school’s community, offering support and comfort to students. Badge’s success led to the addition of two more therapy dogs in the district, showcasing the value of these animals in educational settings.
Officials say the therapy dogs, including Badge, have been credited with helping decrease mental health-related calls at Wausau East High School from 35 in the 2016-2017 school year to just nine in the 2020-2021 school year. Their presence has proven effective in building trust and relationships among students, making significant strides in the department’s mission to enhance the quality of life.
The grant will cover the bulk of the cost of procuring a fully-trained therapy dog.
Badge has not only been a friend and confidant to the students at Wausau East High School but has also left a legacy, with merchandise like shirts and stickers, and an upcoming scholarship in his name. His retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter with the introduction of a new therapy dog that will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact on the students’ lives.
Officials say the grant from the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin is a testament to the community’s support for this program. SRO Stetzer, with the assistance of his supervisors, will oversee the grant’s administration, ensuring the seamless integration of the new therapy dog into the school and community.
The Wausau Police Department, in a letter sent to the city’s Finance Committee, expressed its gratitude to the Community Foundation and all the funders for their support, underscoring the importance of community partnerships in creating safe and supportive environments for young people.
City officials on Tuesday will consider the department’s request to formally accept the funding.
