Leo, the compassion puppy for the South Kingston Police Department

SOUTH KINGSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — South Kingston Police Department Chief Matthew Moynihan swore in their new compassion puppy Thursday afternoon.

Leo, the 10-week-old Bernedoodle puppy, will serve as a support dog for first responders, as well as for the community.

Cove Angels, a breeder in Taunton, MA, donated Leo to the department to improve the health of first responders.

AT&T provided funding for the program, while Rumford Pet Centers supplied his food.

Chief Moynihan introduced the puppy during a swearing-in ceremony, and said “studies show that a dog’s presence can help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety, making Leo capable of doing work that few humans can accomplish”.

South Kingston Police say the puppy will help reduce stress in their department where officers often deal with traumatic events.