Thanks to a grant from Saint Mary’s Foundation, four new Security K-9s and their handlers are on duty at Trinity Health Saint Mary’s – Grand Rapids. Marco, Zan, Bosco, and Kyro are a part of a new pilot program aimed at reducing workplace violence, boosting employee morale, and providing emotional support for patients and visitors.
“The four dogs will rotate, working 24/7 shifts, and provide safety and support for colleagues,” said Dave Kiddle, security director. “At times, the K-9s will serve as therapy-type dogs. and people will be able to pet them if their handler approves, but they are onsite to help de-escalate tense situations and provide additional protection for staff.”
“The K-9 Program offers a consistent safety presence as the dogs and handlers are patrolling the grounds and appearing throughout the hospital on a permanent basis,” said Kurt MacDonald, senior vice president of operations at Trinity Health Grand Rapids. “The dogs and handlers are trained in obedience, aggression control, and explosives detection, all pertinent to our day-to-day operations and the unique situations our colleagues encounter.”
Marco, Zan, Bosco, and Kyro, and their handlers, are a welcome addition. “The feedback has been extremely positive,” said Kiddle. “We are already seeing the results. The dogs and handlers are doing their jobs well, keeping us safe and bringing healing to our patients, visitors, and staff.”
“We are appreciative of the grant from Saint Mary’s Foundation. None of this would have been possible without the funding they provided,” said Kiddle. “We are excited to see the difference the handlers and K-9s will make here at Trinity Health Grand Rapids.”