Meet Ryan: Seattle Police comfort dog supporting victims of abuse
Feb 13, 2025, 7:05 AM | Updated: 8:06 am
"Ryan," a 4 ½-year-old yellow English Labrador Retriever. (Photo courtesy of Seattle Police Department)
(Photo courtesy of Seattle Police Department)
The Seattle Police Department is giving a shout-out to one of its dogs.
In a post on its blotter, SPD introduced “Ryan,” a 4 ½-year-old yellow English Labrador Retriever.
“Ryan is a comfort dog assigned to a detective in the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit,” according to the post. “He came to Seattle in 2022 from a New York organization called America’s Vet Dogs.”
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Ryan’s job is to comfort those going through the criminal justice process related to sexual assault and child abuse investigations. He sits with victims during their interviews with police officers.
“Ryan also attends court hearings and sentencings, allowing people to see him throughout their journey in seeking justice,” the post said.
During one trial, he sat on the witness stand as a 16-year-old testified against one of their parents in a domestic violence case.
This month, Ryan’s job kept him busier than ever. He comforted victims during two adult interviews and four child interviews.
Ryan has participated in more than 75 cases supporting both adults and children.
“When not actively providing support to those in our community, most days Ryan can be found sleeping under his assigned detective’s desk, often snoring away. His loving presence in the office also helps the detectives who do this important work,” SPD stated.
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When Ryan is off duty, he relaxes at home with another dog and a cat.
Meanwhile in Pierce County, Tacoma Police Department Sergeant McKenzie is making sure to recognize cute pups.
Those walking their dogs in Tacoma may come across McKenzie asking, “Can I pet your dog?”
Tacoma has the cutest pups & Sgt. McKenzie knows it! While on a call or between them, Sgt McKenzie finds time to greet & play w Tacoma’s finest pups. So if you & Fido are out & a Police Sgt asks “Can I pet your dog?” you know it’s Sgt McKenzie looking to make a new furry friend! pic.twitter.com/f30519amr6
— Tacoma Police Department (@TacomaPD) September 13, 2024
Contributing: Julia Dallas, MyNorthwest
Frank Lenzi is the News Director for KIRO Newsradio and MyNorthwest.
