Northbrook Police Department Therapy K9 Program

This presentation will explore how the Northbrook Police Department’s Therapy K9 Program, featuring Therapy K9 Chloe, is supporting community members in crisis, enhancing first responder wellness, and building trust through compassionate engagement.

A couple key points to be coverd

• The role of therapy dogs in modern policing and how K9 Chloe supports mental wellness for both officers and civilians.
• Real-world examples of Chloe’s impact during crisis calls, school visits, and community events.
• The training, certification and daily work routine of a police therapy K9
• How programs like this build community trust and reduce stigma around mental health.

About Teresa

Officer Teresa Drewes is a 19-year veteran of the Northbrook Police Department, currently serving as Community Engagement Officer and the department’s Therapy K9 Handler.  She was also a field training officer, crime scene investigator, and CIT certified officer.  Teresa previously served as a detective, specializing in sensitive investigations, juvenile crimes and arson investigations.  She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from Loyola University Chicago and is passionate about community engagement, officer wellness, and innovative police strategies.  She and Therapy Canine Chloe have responded to over 500 calls for service since October 2021.