SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – While officers from the Santa Barbara Police Department (SBPD) continue their work throughout the city, a new four-legged friend is hard at work to help ease the challenges within. Meet the department’s newest support K-9, Cota!
The 2-year-old English Lab is part of the its wellness initiative program – ensuring officers and staff have the support they need to continue a long-lasting career, and maintain a healthy mindset outside of it. While Cota is not the only wellness support initiative available to staff, she is the newest… and by far the cutest.
Everyday, Cota comes into the station with her handler Katie Houseknecht and makes her rounds to receive her daily dose of pets, treats, and belly rubs. And while Cota’s role may seem simple, what she provides is so much more. As a support animal, Cota provides comfort and solace – creating a light in an space that can be dim at times…