The Watertown Police Department in Massachusetts has welcomed a new member, Officer Wyatt, a facility dog trained by Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). Wyatt’s main responsibility is to provide emotional support and comfort to officers, city staff, and residents.
Wyatt was raised as a puppy by Tony Wickersham, an Aerospace Coordinator for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), and his wife Melanie. Both are longtime supporters of GDA | TLC. During his early years, Wyatt attended several IAM events.
“It was great raising Wyatt,” said Tony Wickersham. “He has become a great facility dog that will help many people in the Watertown Community. Melanie and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Wyatt is paired with Officer Kyle Rooney, who has been with the department for eight years. The two attend community events together, offering support and a friendly presence throughout Watertown.
Wyatt’s training included time with puppy raisers in Indiana and participation in a specialized program at Mule Creek State Prison in California. There, incarcerated trainers taught him discipline and over 50 different cues and skills. His training also covered deep pressure compression therapy and recognizing when someone needs comfort.
Wyatt joins Raider, the department’s first therapy dog who began working last summer with students and community members. While Raider works during the day, Wyatt covers afternoons and evenings to ensure continuous support across different shifts.
Both dogs have participated in local events such as the Polar Plunge. They work alongside their handlers but take breaks for playtime as well. Residents may see Officer Rooney and Wyatt around town or at future community gatherings. The police department asks people to check with Officer Rooney before petting Wyatt since he is on duty.
Wyatt wears a custom patch resembling those worn by police officers but featuring his image at the center to symbolize his role within the department.
“It was great raising Wyatt,” said Tony Wickersham. “He has become a great facility dog that will help many people in the Watertown Community. Melanie and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Wyatt’s journey demonstrates how service animals raised through programs supported by IAM can positively affect local communities by supporting first responders and spreading comfort.
