K-9 Team Brings Comfort and Community Together

Nash and Cpl. April Latona with packages full of dog toys and treats for dogs in need.IMAGE: Haledon (New Jersey) Police DepartmentNash and Latona spend their days brightening the lives of school children and police officers, and aiding crime victims.IMAGE: Haledon (New Jersey) Police DepartmentAt a time when mental health concerns are taking center stage, therapy dogs are stepping into the spotlight within law enforcement.

Meet Nash, a Pitbull mix who, just shy of two years old, is making waves in his community.

As a therapy dog for the Haledon (New Jersey) Police Department, Nash works hand in paw with his dedicated handler, Cpl. April Latona. Together, they have built a bond that extends beyond their work at the station, connecting with individuals and families in need of comfort.

The Journey to Becoming a Therapy Dog

Nash’s journey began in a unique way, according to Latona.

The department’s Deputy Chief approached Latona about starting a therapy dog program, shortly after she adopted Nash as a puppy. He had noticed that other New Jersey departments were having success with therapy dog programs and wanted to launch one in Haledon.

Having had previous experience with animals as the department's Humane Officer, Latona saw this as an opportunity to make a positive impact in her community. “I started doing research and found another officer who had done a therapy dog program with his personal dog,” she says, noting Nash was around six months old at the time.

She and Nash started training with Cover K9. After passing the required American Kennel Club certification for therapy dogs, Nash officially became a certified therapy dog in March of 2024.

The training was rigorous, focusing on basic obedience, situational awareness, and interactions with children and vulnerable individuals. Nash’s calm demeanor, stemming from his mix of breeds, which include Pitbull, German Shepherd and Brittany Spaniel, made him an ideal candidate for therapy work.

“He’s super loving, and he’s always been mellow,” Latona says, reflecting on Nash’s natural disposition. “He has his moments, but he's very well-suited for this role.”

Nash, a Pitbull mix, is the Haledon PD's first therapy dog.IMAGE: Cpl. April Latona, Haledon (New Jersey) Police DepartmentMaking a Difference in the Community

Nash’s role in the community is multifaceted. Beyond his duties at the police station, where he lifts the spirits of officers and staff, Nash also visits schools, provides comfort to victims of domestic violence, and participates in the Junior Police Academy, where kids flock to see him.

“When they see Nash, it’s like they forget all their worries,” Latona shares. “It’s amazing how a simple dog can make a connection and bring so much joy.”

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Nash’s work is his involvement in community outreach projects. This holiday season, Latona and Nash initiated a special project called the Holiday Pet Box Program.

“Christmas can be a tough time for families, especially when it comes to providing for their pets,” she explains.  “I think all pets should have something to open on Christmas.”

The initiative collected donations of pet food, toys, and supplies, creating gift boxes for families in need. With over $2,000 in monetary donations and many in-kind contributions, Latona deemed the project a tremendous success. Boxes were delivered to families and animals in the borough, with extra items donated to local shelters like Jersey Pits Rescue and others.

“The community has really come together for this,” Latona says, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support. “People love their pets like family. It’s been heartwarming to see them so excited to give their animals a gift.”

The Power of the Handler-Dog Bond

The success of a law enforcement therapy dog program lies not just in the dog’s temperament, but also in the relationship between the handler and the animal, according to Latona.

She shares her deep bond with Nash is evident in the way they work together. The pair are often seen on patrol, with Nash offering support to officers and brightening the mood during stressful situations. She also takes Nash to visit court offices, the Department of Public Works, and the borough’s administrative offices.

“If I don’t have him with me on duty, everyone’s asking, ‘Where’s Nash?’ He’s become a part of the family,” she says. “I use him with all the victims we have of domestic violence. And I take him to schools whenever they have an incident. Not that long ago a school had a tragic incident. I came with Nash and hung out at the school all day for anyone who needed us.”

Nash’s presence in the department has sparked conversations about the importance of mental health and wellness among officers and staff. Officers benefit from his calming influence, helping to alleviate stress and foster stronger relationships within the team, according to Latona.

“He brings so much positivity to everyone around him,” said April. “It’s been nothing but positive feedback from the department and the community.”

Looking Ahead

As Nash continues to grow in his role, Latona says she is hopeful for the future of therapy dogs in law enforcement.

She advocates for a therapy dog program in other departments, highlighting its immeasurable benefits for both officers and the community. “It bridges the gap between the police and the community, especially with children,” she says. “It creates a positive connection that lasts long after we leave.”

Looking ahead, Latona plans to make the Holiday Pet Box Program an annual tradition, hoping to expand its reach and impact. The outpouring of generosity and the joy Nash has brought to so many has inspired her to continue building stronger connections with the community.

“People were so generous in their donations, and it spread so much joy,” she says. “I didn’t expect it to be as successful as it was this year, and I hope to make it a little better each year.”

For now, Nash and April will continue to work side by side, bringing comfort to those who need it most, one paw at a time.