LYNN — The Lynn Police Department has welcomed a new four-legged member to its ranks: Chase, a 10-week-old Australian Labradoodle, who is beginning his journey as the department’s first comfort dog.
Handled by Officer Mike Chakoutis, Chase is part of a growing initiative aimed at strengthening community relationships and supporting mental health across the city.
“It’s a comfort dog program, so it’s a little different,” Chakoutis explained as the puppy walked around with calm obedience.
The idea for a comfort dog program came after observing similar efforts in neighboring communities.
“So a lot of other departments have it… Tewksbury has some (and) Belmont.” Chakoutis said.
Funding was secured through a grant, making the program possible without burdening local taxpayers.
Even in his first week, Chase has made an impression. “Just even having him for a week, it’s already… brightened morale,” Chakoutis noted. “Everyone loves a dog.”
Chase was carefully selected by a breeder in New Hampshire called Monadnock Labradoodles, who specializes in temperament-based placements.
“She had a litter of eight puppies… and she actually waits until…towards the end to see the best temperament for a comfort dog,” Chakoutis said.
The breeder ultimately chose Chase for Lynn due to his calm and relaxed demeanor.
The community has already played a role in shaping the program, starting with Chase’s name.
“What the chief did was he let…all the eighth graders in… the city of Lynn pick a couple names,” Chakoutis explained. “Two or three different schools picked the name Chase.” Those students will be among the first to officially meet him once training progresses.
For now, Chase is still in the early stages of preparation. “He’s going to go through a series of training… we go… once a week right now,” Chakoutis said, adding that a more intensive four-week training program is ahead.
The goal is to have Chase fully ready by the start of the next school year.
Once trained, his role will extend far beyond the police station. “It can be anything from… a victim (or) witness… if a tragedy happens with kids involved,” Chakoutis said.
He will also assist with “critical incident, mental health management” and attend schools, senior centers, and community events.
Early exposure is already underway. “We’ve been to a couple schools… just to get acclimated to sights and sounds,” Chakoutis said. “They were playing basketball today (and it’s) the first time he’s heard a basketball dribble.”
Public response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“People already recognize him just from the Facebook post,” he said. “I think it’s going to make a huge impact on the community.”
Chase will live with Chakoutis when off duty, creating a consistent bond essential for his role.
The program is currently considered a pilot, but expansion may be possible.
For now, Chase continues to charm everyone he meets, one tail wag at a time.
