Crisis K9 Therapy Dog “Max” is retiring after five years, 35 in dog years, with the Prince George RCMP.
Max was a trailblazer, being the first full-time professional therapy dog with the RCMP in Canada. Other accomplishments for Max include being the first therapy dog to go court with a child victim in BC, winning the Unsung Hero Award for Community Service in 2016, and being instrumental in assisting his handler, Victim Services Coordinator Krista Levar, in obtaining the BC Achievement Award in 2017 for their work together.
“He has mentored several therapy dogs across the province including Williams Lake’s dog, Kitimat’s dog, Powell River’s dog, he and I have done a lot of work together now over the years and just trying to build other people up and have the confidence to do this kind of work as well,” explains Levar, saying Max has also been key for cases with children.
“Kids will often disclose more and have an easier time talking to police if they’re feeling comfortable and they’re feeling less afraid and that’s what he has done, he’s been amazing.”
People gather at the @PG_RCMP detachment to celebrate Max, a Crisis K9 Therapy Dog working his last shift of an over five year career (35 years in dog years) ?? #CityofPG @mypgnow pic.twitter.com/VpkRLQjk7I
— Matt Fetinko (@mattfetinko) August 14, 2018
Max would join officers sometimes when doing interviews and go on-scene to help when he could.
Levar was blown away by the support shown for Max both at his retirement party and on social media.
“We don’t always know when we’re making an impact and it feels really good to know that he has touched so many people and he has made such a difference.”
Max will stop by the PG RCMP detachment every now and then to phase him out, according to Levar. His retirement plans include relaxing and swimming at various lakes, guarding his front porch, and getting treats without having to work for them.
Celebration for Retiring Therapy Dog Victim Services' Crisis Response and Therapy Dog 'Max' is working his last shift tomorrow.
To honour Max and his 35 dog years of service, @PG_RCMP invites you to say a fond farewell tomorrow.
Event: https://t.co/7SrTQgN1Zq pic.twitter.com/ebj3NCdUJm— Prince George, BC (@CityofPG) August 14, 2018