K9 Gus joins Indianapolis police force as therapy dog

Indianapolis, Indiana – A new four-legged member of the Indianapolis police department has joined.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department today welcomed a K9 Officer as a new employee. The 10-month-old puppy, Gus, will be the next therapy dog for IMPD.

Gus, a small labradoodle from Australia, has been preparing for his new role since November 2022. Gus will now use his abilities to defuse difficult situations and support cops, according to IMPD, after completing three levels of intensive therapy training.

“The psychological and physiological aspect of dealing and interacting with these dogs is absolutely amazing,” said IMPD Deputy Chief Valerie Cunningham. “And, for our officers, we feel it will allow them to open up when they come into that wellness office.”

Ofc. Gus initially made IMPD Chief Randal Taylor leery, but he has since changed his mind.

“I have to admit, when I first met him, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” Chief Taylor said. “I’ve always been a dog person – but you never really know. Gus put me at ease immediately.”

Gus will now start his tour of the department’s districts to meet and greet officers, according to IMPD.