Say ‘hello’ to the OK9 wellbeing and trauma support dogs and their handlers in the other UK forces.
These dogs are all members of the national OK9 wellbeing and trauma support dog network and are able to attend the aftermath of a major incident to support those affected by trauma. They also get the opportunity to attend national events and to support our wellbeing outreach service.
Claire McDonald is Max's handler. She has been a team leader with Border Force for 16 years and has experience of handling and training operational dogs.
The team’s trial has been extended for a further six months to allow Claire to complete additional training. They cover Border Force’s North Region which includes North England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and North Wales.
Max is a retired search dog. They are both enjoying their new roles where the focus is on helping staff.
Fergie's handler is Carol, who is the Training Sergeant at the Dog Training Unit based at Sellafield Nuclear Licensed Site.
Carol said: "Fergie is a retired Explosive Detection Dog with 8 years of service - she is now based at the training unit with me where she gives search demonstrations. Working in the OK9 role is a lovely aspect of my role. I get to meet a wide range of people and Fergie is in her element greeting people. Fergie works her magic just by being there. I regularly take her into control rooms, staff forums, and training sessions, and the effect is immediate. Shoulders drop. People hit the floor, they're rolling around with her, and all of a sudden, barriers just seem to disappear."
Rosie's handler, Sue, is a national wellbeing manager working in CT Policing.
Sue said: “I have owned Rosie since she was a puppy, and her calm, gentle nature made her a natural addition to the OK9 family. Seeing the positive impact she has on people reinforces my belief in the important role dogs play in supporting wellbeing and mental health.
"I regularly take her to work, where she is always warmly welcomed and brightens people’s day with her wagging tail and friendly face. Together, we attend local and national wellbeing events, where she has brought comfort to many individuals, helping them to relax, reset, and open-up when needed. She truly is a superstar, and it brings me great joy to see the positive impact she has on everyone she meets.”
Molly's handler, Jan, works as the Capability Support Manager to CT Investigations Capability Lead and CT Head for Counter Terrorism Policing South East after retiring from Hampshire Constabulary as a Detective Inspector.
Jan said: "I have encountered many who have suffered stress, anxiety and mental health, particularly as a force negotiator and now as a mental health peer supporter and OK09 handler. I am honoured for Molly and I to be able to support our colleagues across the CT network, seeing the benefits this can bring is amazing and we are so proud to be a part of this great network of wellbeing dogs."