A Very Good Birthday Boy: K‑9 Diego Brings Joy to the Campus Community

Slideshow Description

The UC San Diego Police Department’s K-9 therapy dog, Diego, recently turned two and celebrated his birthday with a “pawty” for the entire campus community. Officer Emma Dart, Diego’s human, along with other members of the police department handed out pizza and cookies to over 300 attendees who came to celebrate and take pictures with the birthday boy.

The police department therapy dog program is intended to build stronger bonds with the campus community and within the police department. The dogs provide comfort, wellness and emotional support at community engagement events and can be deployed following a critical or traumatic incident. The dogs also provide emotional support to police staff on a daily basis by being present at the station. As community liaisons, the dogs serve as effective icebreakers, helping officers engage the public on safety issues.

“I feel extremely grateful for how much support the community showed in coming together to celebrate our best boy, Diego," Dart said. “Diego had a blast at his party, taking photos with attendees and enjoying a special birthday "pup" cake. Although the Therapy Dog Program is still very young, the impact it has made within our community is great. We have had so many opportunities to connect, support and communicate with all of our students, staff and faculty.”