KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The University of Tennessee’s Police Department has two new explosive detection dogs that carry names with deep ties to the University.
The two new K-9s, a chocolate Labrador retriever mix and a black Labrador retriever, are both trained in Explosive Ordnance Detection and vapor wake detection, which enhances the university’s safety and security capabilities. UTPD now has five working dogs.
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“We host a wide variety of events on our campus; concerts, distinguished speakers, and athletic competitions that draw thousands of visitors,” said University of Tennessee Police Chief Sean Patterson. “Having highly trained K9s working alongside our officers adds an important layer of safety and reassurance for everyone attending.”
The first of the two new K-9s, the chocolate Labrador mix, is named Doc, in tribute to Dr. Spencer Gregg. Gregg practiced medicine for 36 years, including 25 years at the UT Student Health Center and 15 years as the center’s director. The police department wrote that Gregg devoted his career to the health and well-being of students and that his leadership was especially vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gregg died in February at the age of 62…