Monroe Police Department’s K-9 Ivy graduates from therapy dog program

MONROE, N.C. — Monroe Police Department’s new therapy dog, K-9 Ivy, graduated from her training program on Thursday.

The community was invited to celebrate at the department.

“Come help us cheer on Ivy as she tosses her paws in the air and graduates in style!” the department posted on social media.

In February, Channel’s Gina Esposito spoke with Monroe Police Chief Rhett Bolen, who said he has emphasized mental health since taking office.

He said the department partnered with Project 2 Heal, a nonprofit dedicated to providing service dogs, to raise $15,000 for Ivy, a trained therapy dog.

Project 2 Heal said the funds raised fully support Ivy’s journey.

It will cover food, vaccines, health testing and clearance, staff time, and training.

K-9 Ivy’s handler is crime-scene technician Lexi Church.

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