PITKIN COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) – How about this damn good news?

Cross your paws for the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office’s first-ever police dog!

Otto was sworn in earlier this month:

And is about to start elite training for good boys!

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office explains that the mission of its new canine unit is to improve the emotional well-being of local students:

“Otto, a Nebraska Golden Retriever, comes from a bloodline that has been successfully used in therapy and detection work across the country. As the first K9 to join the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), Otto will play a critical role in creating a safer environment for staff and students of Pitkin County schools, as well as the residents of Pitkin County. The mission of this K-9 unit is focused on supporting Pitkin County schools. … This proactive approach helps address the stressors young people face and strengthens the bond between the PCSO and the school community it serves. The first goal for Otto is to receive his Canine Good Citizen certification, an important step toward certification as a therapy dog. He has been assigned as a partner to School Resource Officer (SRO) Dru Lucchesi and will work closely with Deputy Lucchesi and the other School Resource Officers (SROs) to build trust and rapport with students and staff.”

“We are very pleased to welcome Otto as the first police dog in the history of the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office. This initiative represents a significant step forward in our efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of Pitkin County. With Otto’s unique skills and our dedicated officers, we aim to create a safer and more connected community,” said Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione.

All rights reserved.