MILWAUKEE — As you enter Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) Precinct 4, you notice all the officers, but one four-legged member immediately catches your eye.
CRUSH is the first service dog for the Milwaukee Police Department facility, thanks to Partners with Paws, a nonprofit dog training organization that donated her.
Fromm Family Pet Food provides him with food and treats, and Kewaskum Vet Clinic takes care of his needs free of charge.
CRUSH isn’t your typical K9, she just has an important job on the force.
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“She’s here specifically to cheer you up,” said Officer Benjamin Ade, wellness coordinator for the Milwaukee Police Department.
Officer Ade, along with K9 CRUSH, respond to critical incidents to comfort officers who are going through a difficult time.
“This can be a tough job, the things we have to investigate, the things we have to do can be very stressful, and she (CRUSH) provides great stress relief,” Officer Ade stated.
CRUSH joined the force late last year, but quickly became everyone’s favorite.
“You can tell that having her around brightens people’s days,” smiled Officer Ade.
For Officer Bradley Baker, his mood instantly changed after watching CRUSH. Baker works in District 5 and said he has been dealing with tough death investigations.
“We are human too,” Officer Baker said.
So as Wellness Coordinator, Officer Ade makes sure to bring CRUSH and Officer Baker said it makes a world of difference.
“When CRUSH gets there, you sit there and she opens you up, and the cops start crying and letting out their emotions,” Officer Baker said.
Through his touch and lots of licking, CRUSH gives officers the peace they need in difficult times.
“It’s been an incredible time,” Officer Baker said.
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