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File #: 2025-0813    Version: 0 Name: Introduction of Therapy Dog Holly
Type: MOTION Status: IN COMMITTEE /COMMISSION
File created: 10/10/2025 In control: Committee of the Whole
On agenda: 10/20/2025 Final action:
Title: Introduction of Therapy Dog Holly

Title

Introduction of Therapy Dog Holly

 

 

History

 

The men and women of the Orland Park Police Department are its greatest asset. Sworn officers and tele-communicators are oftentimes on the front lines of critical incidents and witness situations that result in a high degree of stress and anxiety following traumatic events. Additionally, victims, in particular children, are highly susceptible to depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from abuse or neglect.

 

The continuation of the Therapy Dog Program will allow the Orland Park Police Department to assist employees and victims after a critical/traumatic event. The therapy dog would continue to be available for community and school events.

 

The Police Department worked with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office Tails of Redemption Program. In 2018, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart launched Tails of Redemption Program uniting dogs, individuals in custody, and members of the community in a journey of rehabilitation and hope. Inmates not only learn to train dogs in basic obedience, and preparing the animals for adoption, but they also acquire essential life skills such as patience, compassion, and problem-solving, thus enhancing their job readiness upon release.

 

The Tails of Redemption Program currently works with 3 local shelters. The program began with a partnership with Chicago Animal Care and Control. In 2021, Cicero Waggin’ Tails and South Suburban Humane Society joined the Tails of Redemption Program.

 

The Police Department’s new therapy dog, Holly, has received basic obedience training from county sentenced inmates and advanced training will be provided with a K9 specialist. Police Officer Przislicki has been assigned as Holly’s handler. In order to advance Holly’s public availability, Holly will accompany Officer Przislicki whenever he is on shift. 

 

Additionally, with the Police Department’s migration to 12-hour shifts starting in February 2026, the Police Department will be looking to acquire a second therapy dog from Cook County’s Tails of Redemption Program. In this way, the therapy dogs will be available on alternating shifts providing even greater availability to the public and other public safety personnel.

 

 

Financial Impact

 

None

 

 

Recommended Action/Motion

For discussion only