To foster connections with the rapidly growing senior community in Douglas County, CO., the sheriff’s office has decided to welcome a unique canine member to its team.

Meet Leo, a four-month-old Bernedoodle, who has captured the hearts of local seniors and has become a leading figure in law enforcement community outreach in Colorado.

Leo, whose name stands for “law enforcement officer,” is making waves as the state’s first and only senior resource dog dedicated to serving the older population.

With the number of seniors in Douglas County expected to double by 2050, the introduction of Leo into the community represents an innovative approach to addressing the needs of aging residents.

Ryan Falkner, the Senior Resource Deputy at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Leo’s handler, shares the impact Leo has had in just a short time.

“He just brings out the joy of our older adults,” said Falkner. “So many of our older adults, especially if they lose their loved ones, feel lonely or depressed, just disconnected. And this is a way for the sheriff’s office to reconnect them and get more positive feelings by just a simple pet.”

Leo was rescued from a puppy mill by the nonprofit Colorado Animal Care Foundation.

The organization, which works with the sheriff’s office, immediately knew Leo would be the perfect match for such a role.

“When they started asking questions, which puppy was right for this job, we knew it was Leo,” said Leo’s first foster, Meg Reynolds. “It’s really his calling.”

Police plan to bring Leo to community events to provide comfort to seniors.

Despite his young age, Leo possesses a calm demeanor and an old soul, making him a perfect fit for his role.

“He’s got the best temperament. So patient,” said Falkner.

Officials say the idea of incorporating a dog like Leo into the Sheriff’s Office’s outreach efforts is to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the senior community, many of whom might feel intimidated or disconnected from the badge and uniform.

“Some of our population in general have a hesitation with this badge and this uniform. It’s scary, even with the older adults. This is a way to show them ‘Hey, we’re not scary, we’re here to help,’” said Ryan.

Senior Club Member Carolyn Rike recounted how Leo’s visits have become something she looks forward to each month.

“It helps so much to see him each month, and I’ve asked him several times to look at my phone and see this message I’ve gotten, ‘Is this a scam or not a scam?’ I’m just not that savvy with all this technology and he has helped me so much,” Rike shared.

Leo’s introduction to the community and his role in supporting Douglas County’s seniors have only just begun.

With plans to attend the Senior Club Luncheon monthly and participate in other community events, Leo is on a mission to protect and serve.

His training as an emotional support animal is ongoing, under the guidance of trainer Katt Walsh, who praised Leo’s gentle nature and eagerness to learn.

“He will be gentle with all the seniors he comes into contact with,” Walsh told KDVR News. “He knows how to sit, lay down, and he will learn to give hugs on command.”

During a recent ceremony, Leo was sworn in as the newest K-9 deputy with the Sheriff’s Office. The ceremony even included an oath with paw prints stamped onto paper.