RICHMOND — Vader, a specially trained Labrador retriever, has joined the Virginia State Police to support the agency’s Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team as part of its Wellness Program. His role is to help reduce stress and anxiety among officers, especially following traumatic incidents.
Research has shown that police officers face higher rates of trauma exposure than the general public, highlighting the need for expanded wellness initiatives. Facility dogs like Vader provide comfort, promote resilience, and can help open the door to conversations during stressful times.
Vader was donated to the Virginia State Police by Mutts With A Mission, a Virginia Beach-based nonprofit accredited by Assistance Dogs International. The organization trains facility and service dogs for veterans, wounded warriors, and first responders.
Over the past two years, Vader completed extensive training, including the ADI Public Access Test and Skills Test, certifying him to work in critical incident stress debriefings, peer sessions, and other high-stress settings. Mutts With A Mission selected Vader specifically for his calm temperament, attentiveness, and adaptability.
Information from a release. Edited by Dan McDermott.
