Holly Springs Police Welcome Kona the Wellness Dog
New addition to support Officer and community well-being
Holly Springs, NC, November 8 —The Holly Springs Police Department (HSPD) has introduced Kona, a specially trained wellness dog, to provide emotional support for officers, community members, and crime victims. Kona, a black Labrador Retriever, recently joined HSPD through the organization Puppies Behind Bars, which prepares service dogs for police, veterans, and first responders to manage trauma and stress.
The addition of Kona to HSPD is part of a growing trend among police departments across the country that are integrating wellness dogs into their teams to support mental health and well-being. Departments in cities like Seattle, San Antonio, and Charlotte have already implemented similar programs, recognizing these dogs' benefits in reducing stress, promoting resilience, and fostering community relations.
Master Officer Leon Nelson, who led the initiative to bring Kona to Holly Springs, was inspired by these successful programs. He saw an opportunity to enhance officer well-being and create a comforting presence for citizens experiencing difficult situations. “Kona helps officers and community members feel supported, even in stressful moments,” Nelson said. The HSPD’s wellness dog program is fully funded by the Holly Springs Hero Golf Tournament, reflecting the community’s commitment to police well-being and public engagement.
Kona’s role extends beyond officer support. She attends public events, helping build positive relationships between the police and the community. Kona has already participated in HollyFest and the Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off, bringing joy and emotional comfort to attendees. She will appear at the upcoming Police Autism Awareness Event and the Holly Springs Holiday Parade.
Chief Paul Liquorie underscored the value of Kona's presence: "Wellness dogs like Kona provide a unique support system for our officers, helping alleviate the mental toll of police work. Kona is also a calming influence for crime victims and community members.” Research supports that wellness dogs can lower stress, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood – benefits that resonate in the high-pressure world of law enforcement.
The trend of wellness dogs in police departments reflects a broader movement toward prioritizing mental health and wellness for officers and those they serve. With Kona, Holly Springs is now part of this national initiative, and the department looks forward to sharing her positive influence with the community.