Lone Star College Police Department's First Canine and Therapy Dog

Supporting Mental Health & Well-being

The Lone Star College Police Department proudly introduces K9 Tater Tot, the department's first canine and cornerstone of its Therapy Dog Program. Donated by Oodles of Doodles Texas, K9 Tater Tot began his journey at the LSC Tomball campus under the care of the Veterinary Technology Program. Dr. Angela MacFarlane, DVM, and Denise Metz, LVT, provide expert care, ensuring costs stay low while offering top-notch support.

Now based at the Central Headquarters at LSC University Park, K9 Tater Tot travels to all campuses, offering emotional support, promoting mental health, and engaging with students and staff. As he matures, K9 Tater Tot will undergo advanced training as a Law Enforcement & Multidiscipline Crimes Against Persons Therapy Dog.

Meet K9 Tater Tot

• Date of Birth: May 12, 2023
• Breed: Miniature Labradoodle
• Achievements: AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog
• Favorite Trick: Fist bump
• Favorite Treats: Carrots, apples, blueberries
• Hobbies: Playing at the dog park, observing campus life, cuddling with family
• Fun Fact: Tater Tot’s name is a playful nod to his handler, Officer Emily Tait, who developed the Therapy Dog Program.

How K9 Tater Tot Supports Your Well-being

Therapy dogs like K9 Tater Tot take a holistic approach to well-being, providing mental and physical health benefits. Research shows that interacting with therapy dogs can:

• Reduce cortisol levels (stress hormone) and lower blood pressure
• Boost mood by increasing oxytocin and serotonin
• Encourage social interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness
• In educational settings, decrease anxiety and improve focus

K9 Tater Tot helps students, faculty, and staff manage stress while building positive connections with law enforcement.

Why Our Therapy Dog Program Matters

Officer Emily Tait developed and manages the Therapy Dog Program, providing emotional support during difficult times. K9 Tater Tot plays a key role by:

• Offering comfort during high-stress situations, like exams or personal challenges
• Promoting mental health awareness at campus events
• Engaging with students and staff through outreach activities
• Supporting police officers and staff by boosting morale
• Assisting in crisis intervention and offering emotional support during grief or trauma
• Providing comfort to victims and witnesses during sensitive investigations

The Therapy Dog Program strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the community by providing emotional support in both everyday interactions and during critical moments.

Schedule a Visit with K9 Tater Tot

K9 Tater Tot is available for various events, including:

• Emotional Wellness & Support
• Mental Health & Crisis Intervention
• Community Outreach & Public Engagement
• Comfort During Challenging Times

To request a visit, email OfficerTaterTot@lonestar.edu with the following details:

• Nature of the visit/event
• Preferred location, date, and time
• Number of attendees (and any specific age groups)
• Special requirements (e.g., allergies, fear of dogs)
• Coordinator’s contact information

Please note: Scheduling is prioritized by need and is subject to availability. Off-campus events require prior approval.

Sources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The health benefits of pet ownership. Retrieved from CDC
2. Harvard Health Publishing. Canine companions and human health. Retrieved from Harvard Health
3. American Psychological Association. Therapy dogs in education: Reducing stress and enhancing learning. Retrieved from APA
4. Journal of American College Health. The positive effects of therapy dogs on college students. Retrieved from Tandfonline