Sheriff's Office Announces New Community Outreach Comfort Dog

The Cass County Sheriff's Office is excited to announce the addition of our first Community Outreach Comfort Dog. Deputy K-9 Finn was officially sworn in this week as a deputy and will serve alongside his partner, Deputy Jolene Fletcher. Deputy Fletcher has completed specialized training to serve as K-9 Finn's handler.

K-9 Finn is a 14-month-old Labrador Retriever from Whispering Pines Family Kennel, LLC in Milaca, MN. K-9 Finn completed his training with Performance Kennels, Inc. in Buffalo, MN. K-9 Finn is obedience trained and known for his calm, laid-back demeanor. He enjoys belly scratches and spending time with people, making him a natural fit for comfort and outreach work.

K-9 Finn will support the Sheriff's Office through a variety of outreach and response roles, including community engagement events, school programs, crisis intervention, and support during critical or traumatic incidents and investigations. In addition, K-9 Finn will also provide support for staff wellness within the office.

"K-9 Finn represents the strong partnership we have with the communities we serve," said Sheriff Jesse Jahner. "This program was made possible through the generosity of local organizations and community members, along with the Cass County Commission, who believe in the importance of connection, compassion, and support. K-9 Finn will help us build positive relationships, engage with residents of all ages, and provide comfort during times when it's needed most. We are grateful for the community support that made this possible, and we are excited to see the impact K-9 Finn will have throughout Cass County."

K-9 Finn has already shown a positive impact on the community. During his first shift this week, EMS, Fire, and the Cass County Sheriff's Office responded to a medical call involving a young child. An older sibling who was on scene during the traumatic situation was removed from the situation and was visibly upset. Deputy Fletcher and K-9 Finn spent time with the child, and what started with tears turned to giggles as the child interacted with K-9 Finn. Moments like these highlight the important role K-9 Finn will play in providing comfort and support to individuals during difficult situations while strengthening community connections.

The Community Outreach Comfort Dog program was made possible through generous donations from community partners, including:

• Turf Tamers - Mike Svaleson
• Members of the Davenport Fire Department
• Community of Grandin, ND
• Cass County Electric Cooperative Foundation

The Cass County Sheriff's Office looks forward to the positive impact K-9 Finn will have across the community.

Video footage of Deputy K-9 Finn being sworn in can be found on the Cass County Sheriff's Office Facebook page or on YouTube.