In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. introduced the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office’s newest ‘recruit’ Luna earlier today. The 6-month-old English Cream Retriever was donated by Paws of War, a non-profit organization dedicated to training and placing service animals with veterans and fire responders. Luna will be the Office’s first therapy dog and will work alongside the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office’s Wellness Unit. 

“Traditionally members of law enforcement don’t always ask for help when in need because they are afraid it could be perceived as weakness. This is why a balanced wellness program ensures officers have a reliable, trustworthy way to get peer support. Luna will make a great addition to our Wellness Unit because research has shown that therapy animals can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, improve mood and promote feelings of support and confidence.  Thank you to Paws of War for their continued partnership with the Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Toulon.

“Luna is a very special dog, and she’s going to make an impact on many lives. Sheriff Toulon has a great vision for this program and we’re proud to be part of it. Thanks to Sheriff, his team, and the collaboration with Paws of War, we’ll be able to help so many people who need it,” said President of Paws of War, Robert Misseri. 

The Suffolk County Wellness Unit is one of the only full-time Wellness Unit’s within a law enforcement agency on Long Island and aims to strengthen the health and wellness of all Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office staff. Through building resilience, injury prevention, peer support programs, physical fitness, proper nutrition, stress management, mindfulness, mental health resources, suicide prevention, and more.  Since launching in late 2022 the Wellness Unit has had over one thousand interactions with both sworn and civilian staff. 

Luna is named after fallen FDNY Firefighter Billy Moon, who passed away during a training exercise in December.  Moon’s brother-in-law is a Correction Officer at the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.  The family was in attendance for the naming of the dog and dedication.