As Mental Health Week shines a light on the importance of well-being, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is using a unique program to support its members, with the help of a specially trained dog named Ranger.
Detective Constable Jody Fedek is the handler for Ranger, a wellness service dog who is making a big difference across the province.
The program is still new, but it is already having a strong impact.
Ranger, a two-year-old golden retriever and lab mix, is still early in his career but already making a lasting impression. Trained to provide comfort, including “pressure therapy” by leaning or lying across someone’s lap, Ranger has quickly become a favourite wherever he goes.
Ranger was provided through the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides and is trained to help people dealing with stress, trauma, and anxiety.
A typical day for Fedek and Ranger can vary.
They also visit OPP detachments, offering support and spending time with members who may need a boost.
Fedek says the response to Ranger has been very positive.
She adds that the program is a reminder that police officers are human too, and they need support just like anyone else.
The idea for the program came from Fedek’s experience volunteering with therapy dogs. She saw how much comfort animals could bring in places like schools and nursing homes and believed the same approach could help in policing.
There are hopes to expand the program in the future. Right now, Ranger is the only wellness dog in the OPP, based in the West Region, but there is growing interest in bringing more dogs into the program across Ontario.
Fedek encourages anyone in emergency services who may be struggling to reach out for help.
Her message for Mental Health Week is simple: take care of yourself.
Fedek says while she may be his handler, Ranger is the real star of the program, and it’s easy to see why.
Written by: Kimberly Milhomens
