The Watertown Police Department in Massachusetts has added a new member to its team: Officer Wyatt, a facility dog trained by Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). Unlike traditional police dogs, Wyatt’s role is to provide comfort and emotional support to officers, city employees, and residents.
Wyatt was raised as a puppy by IAM Aerospace Coordinator Tony Wickersham and his wife Melanie. Both have long supported GDA | TLC. During his upbringing, Wyatt attended several International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) events, becoming well-known among union members. “It was great raising Wyatt,” said Tony Wickersham. “He has become a great facility dog that will help many people in the Watertown Community. Melanie and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Officer Kyle Rooney, an eight-year veteran of the department, serves as Wyatt’s handler. The pair can often be seen at community events throughout the city.
Wyatt’s training began with puppy raisers in Indiana before he traveled to Sacramento, California. There, he took part in a program at Mule Creek State Prison where incarcerated trainers taught him discipline and more than 50 cues and skills. His preparation included learning deep pressure compression therapy and recognizing when someone may need comfort.
Wyatt joins Raider, another therapy dog who has worked with students and community members since last summer. The two dogs work different shifts so that there is always a comfort dog available from morning until midnight.
Officer Rooney and Wyatt use their own cruiser for travel around town. When off duty, they spend time playing together.
Residents are encouraged to greet Officer Rooney and Wyatt at upcoming community events but are reminded to ask permission before petting the working dog.
Wyatt wears a custom patch on duty featuring his image alongside those of other officers—a symbol of his presence on the force.
IAM involvement in raising service dogs like Wyatt highlights how acts of service can benefit local communities by providing ongoing support for first responders and residents alike.
