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There’s a Black Bear on campus.
The English Labrador retriever Bear is the newest hire at the University of Maine Police Department, where he will be on the front line “supporting the well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and community members,” the department said Tuesday.
The comfort dog came to Orono from Boonefield Labradors in New Hampshire. Boonefield has raised comfort dogs for other law enforcement agencies in Maine, including the Portland Police Department, where alum Archie is building connections with the Forest City’s community and soothing victims of crime.
“Whether he’s offering a calming presence during a stressful time, helping build positive connections, or simply sharing a tail wag and a smile, Bear’s mission is to make our campus a little brighter every day,” the UMaine Police Department said.
Bear will be partnered with Sgt. Jamey Dover and a regular at campus events.