Name of new Northville Township therapy puppy chosen after unique process
Northville Township Police Officer Andrew Domzalski introduces the township’s new therapy puppy to a young resident.
Short list of finalist names included Fozzy, Buddy, Kevin and TeddyShort list of finalist names included Fozzy, Buddy, Kevin and Teddy
After receiving nearly 600 name suggestions in four days for its new support dog, Northville Township Police Department is excited to introduce…Max.
It’s a fitting name for the 19-week-old male Goldendoodle. Max, of Latin origin, means “the greatest.”
“We have had less than a week together but he’s already the greatest little buddy our community could have,” said Community Service Officer Andrew Domzalski, who is Max’s handler. The puppy accompanies him to work daily and heads home with him after hours.
The Police Department took the name suggestions, which came in via email and social media, and narrowed them down to its top 10. After much discussion, Department members further cut the list to their top five favorites.
That list was given to Officer Domzalski to pick his favorite, since he would be living with and training the puppy. Max became part of his family Sept. 27.
On that short list: Kevin, Max, Chase, Fozzy, Buddy and Teddy.
“Max suits him,” Officer Domzalski said. “He’s the perfect dog for our community. Max is gentle with a calm temperament, making him a great fit for the job he’ll be doing. He naturally brings a smile to your face when you meet him.”
Max, who begins support dog training in November, provides comfort and aid for people during times of crisis, particularly violent or traumatic events. He also reduces anxiety and increases communication between witnesses and investigators, whether they are adults or children. He is an ambassador for community policing.
On his first day “on the job,” Officer Domzalski took the dog to Winchester Elementary and Township Hall. On day two, he welcomed students attending Northville High School’s Everybody vs. Stigma Week in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month.
“We heard from so many people in our community and beyond, all with some excellent name ideas,” said Northville Township Police Chief Scott Hilden. “We appreciate their creativity, their fun stories, their tributes. We look forward to introducing him to our entire community.”
To learn more about the name choice, visit the announcement video at https://www.facebook.com/TwpNorthville.
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