San Marcos, Texas, January 29, 2026
The Texas State University Police Department has introduced a new therapy K9 program that includes two full-time therapy dog teams. This initiative aims to enhance mental health support for students, providing compassionate and trauma-informed care through well-trained canine companions. Officers David Velasco-Martinez and Monique Grijalva, both certified Mental Health Officers, will lead the teams, working closely with trained therapy dogs to create a supportive atmosphere on campus. This program aligns with a national trend in compassionate policing and serves as a model for other educational institutions.
San Marcos, Texas – The Texas State University Police Department (UPD) has launched an innovative program to bolster mental health support for its university community by introducing two full-time therapy K9 teams. This initiative not only reflects a growing trend in compassionate policing but also showcases a proactive approach to student wellness that aligns with the university’s values.
Law enforcement agencies across the nation increasingly recognize the positive impact that therapy dogs can have in high-stress environments. By incorporating well-trained canine companions into their ranks, departments aim to create supportive atmospheres for both officers and the communities they serve. This move by UPD serves both as a tribute to their commitment to Compassion-Based Policing and as a potential model for other educational institutions.
### A Commitment to Mental Health
Officers David Velasco-Martinez and Monique Grijalva lead the new therapy teams, both certified Mental Health Officers (MHOs). Their specialized training enables them to provide trauma-informed and empathetic support to students facing crises. This initiative underscores the significance of mental health, particularly in academic settings where stress is prevalent.
The UPD has collaborated with Paws & Stripes College at the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in Florida to ensure that the therapy dogs meet the highest standards in training and temperament. Such strategic partnerships help to reinforce the validity and effectiveness of this initiative in enhancing the emotional well-being of students.
### The Expansion of Compassion-Based Policing
Chief Matthew Carmichael highlighted the expansion of the therapy K9 Program as a substantial advancement in creating a legacy of compassionate policing. It addresses the vital emotional and mental health needs of students, promoting resilience and well-being at Texas State University. By focusing on these elements, the UPD positions itself not just as law enforcement, but also as a pillar of support for its community.
### Following National Trends
This development at Texas State University is just one example of a nationwide shift in how law enforcement agencies utilize therapy dogs. For instance, the Lone Star College Police Department recently launched its Therapy Dog Program, featuring K-9 Tater Tot, a miniature Labradoodle, to comfort students and staff. Similarly, Brookhaven Police Department in Georgia introduced Collin, a pit bull mix, to enhance mental health resources available in their community.
These initiatives reflect a broader recognition of the therapeutic benefits that therapy dogs can provide. Such programs demonstrate that compassionate connections between humans and animals can lead to an improved emotional climate in sectors that often operate under high-pressure conditions.
### Looking Ahead
The new K9 teams at Texas State University are set to begin operations in the upcoming academic year. The community can look forward to events introducing these therapy officers and their four-legged partners, fostering engagement and support.
In conclusion, the expansion of the UPD’s Therapy K9 Program is a promising step towards better mental health endorsement in college settings. By nurturing resilient communities and encouraging open discussions around mental health, universities can continue to thrive – illustrating yet again the impact of compassion in policing.
For those interested in the specifics of the program or future community engagement events, the Texas State University Police Department’s official website will provide further insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Texas State University Police Department’s Therapy K9 Program?
The Therapy K9 Program is an initiative by the Texas State University Police Department to provide mental health and wellness support to the university community through the integration of trained therapy dogs.
Who are the new therapy K9 teams?
Officers David Velasco-Martinez and Monique Grijalva are leading the new therapy K9 teams. Both are certified Mental Health Officers (MHOs) trained to offer trauma-informed and empathetic support to students in crisis.
Where are the therapy dogs being trained?
The department has partnered with the nationally recognized Paws & Stripes College at the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in Florida to train its next generation of therapy dogs, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and temperament.
When will the new K9 teams begin operations?
The new K9 teams are expected to commence operations this academic year, with plans to introduce the community to the new officers and their four-legged partners in the near future.
How can I learn more about the Therapy K9 Program?
For more information about the UPD’s Therapy K9 Program and upcoming community engagement events, please visit the Texas State University Police Department’s official website.
Key Features of the Texas State University Police Department’s Therapy K9 Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Launch | Introduction of two full-time therapy K9 teams to enhance mental health and wellness support for the university community. |
| Leading Officers | Officers David Velasco-Martinez and Monique Grijalva, both certified Mental Health Officers (MHOs), will lead the new teams. |
| Training Partnership | Collaboration with Paws & Stripes College at the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in Florida to train the therapy dogs, ensuring high standards of professionalism and temperament. |
| Program Launch Date | The new K9 teams are expected to commence operations this academic year, with plans to introduce the community to the new officers and their four-legged partners in the near future. |
| Program Objective | To provide effective, trauma-informed, and empathetic support to students in crisis, aligning with the department’s commitment to Compassion-Based Policing. |
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