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| Zeke |
Members of the department and the community are mourning the loss of Zeke who had become a popular figure in the community, attending multiple city events and welcoming visitors to the police station. Police officials said that the positive impact Zeke had in the community and the department inspired several other local departments to invest in therapy dogs.
Zeke joined the department in December of 2019 and quickly became an asset to the community and to officers who face stressful situations on a daily basis, officials said. All expenses for Zeke, including all training, dog supplies, veterinarian checks, membership to the therapy dog association, and other costs were paid personally by Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong.
In an announcement last week, posted on the Wayne Police Facebook page, the department expressed sentiments regarding the loss of their beloved companion.
"We deeply appreciate the community's support throughout Zeke's time at Wayne PD. The therapy dog program does not end with Zeke.
“Zeke has already inspired therapy dog programs at multiple other police departments. Zeke will not be the last therapy dog at Wayne PD.
"If anyone wishes to honor our friend Zeke's memory, please consider a donation to First Step. Their Ark program allows survivors of domestic and sexual assault to stay with their pets in a safe place," the post concluded.
