Maple Ridge, B.C., Nov. 27, 2024– The Ridge Meadows RCMP and City of Maple Ridge are pleased to announce that Loki, Maple Ridge’s Accredited Facility Dog, has officially passed probation.
Born on October 22, 2021, as part of the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) Avengers Litter, Loki joined the Ridge Meadows RCMP team this summer and has already proven invaluable. Maple Ridge will also be one of the first municipalities to extend the services of an Accredited Facility Dog to other City employees who deal with critical and traumatic files.
Loki’s primary role is to provide wellness support to RCMP members and City employees, helping to improve mental and physical well-being in a demanding and stressful field - from comforting employees after traumatic incidents to participating in employee events.
Superintendent Wendy Mehat, Officer-in-Charge at Ridge Meadows RCMP, expressed her excitement for Loki’s addition to the team: “We are beyond thrilled to have Loki join our detachment. Policing can be very demanding and having Loki offers a source of comfort to our officers and staff.
“We have been wanting to bring an Accredited Facility Dog to our team for a long time, and it finally became a reality with Loki,” states Alysen Cox, Loki’s primary handler at the detachment. “He is truly perfect for this role and my heart is full knowing he is doing what he was meant to do.”
Studies have shown that dogs can have a positive neurochemical effect on individuals affected by trauma. Loki’s interactions—from playtime to simply laying on someone’s lap—have already made a difference in the lives of staff at the detachment.
Mayor Dan Ruimy expressed his enthusiasm for Loki’s success: “We know how much joy a dog can bring, and Loki is a shining example of how innovative programs can have a meaningful impact. His support to RCMP staff at the detachment is extraordinary, and I’m so proud to see this partnership with PADS come to life. It will be welcome support from other City staff who deal with difficult files.”
As part of his ongoing role, Loki will continue to attend employee events, provide comfort after challenging incidents, and be a friendly, calming presence for everyone he meets at the detachment.
The City of Maple Ridge and Ridge Meadows RCMP would like to thank PADS for their ongoing support in making this program a reality.
Released by:
Cst. Tisha Parsons
Media Relations Officer
Ridge Meadows RCMP
11990 Haney Place Maple Ridge, BC V2X 9B8
Office: 604-476-6917
Cell: 604-751-2427
Fax: 604-467-7633
Email: tisha.parsons@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: ridgemeadows.rcmp.ca (English only)