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The Watertown, Mass., Police Department has a very special member on its team. Officer “Wyatt,” a Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines-trained Facility Dog, plays an important role in the department–not to enforce the law, but to provide comfort, connection, and emotional support to officers, city employees, and members of the Watertown community.
Wyatt’s journey to Watertown is a remarkable one, and for many IAM members, it’s also a familiar story. As a puppy, Wyatt was raised by IAM Aerospace Coordinator Tony Wickersham and his wife, Melanie, who are longtime supporters of GDA | TLC. During his puppyhood, Wyatt attended numerous IAM events, quickly becoming a favorite among members. Today, that early investment of care and dedication is paying forward in a meaningful way.
“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 partnered with Officer Kyle Rooney, an eight-year veteran of the department, who serves as his handler. Together, they are frequently seen throughout the city and at community events, offering support and a friendly presence to those who may need it most.
WATCH: Watertown Police Department Expands Support Services with Facility Dog Wyatt Watertown Cable Access
Trained through GDA | TLC, Wyatt’s preparation was extensive and unique. Wyatt began his training with puppy raisers in Indiana before traveling to Sacramento, California.
There, he participated in a specialized program at Mule Creek State Prison, where incarcerated trainers helped teach him focus, discipline, and more than 50 cues and skills.
His training also includes deep pressure compression therapy and the ability to sense when someone may need comfort. Wyatt joins Raider, the department’s first therapy dog, who has been working with students and community members since last summer.
The two dogs quickly bonded after meeting at the station and have already worked side by side at community events, including the recent Polar Plunge (not that they joined in the water play – way too cold for these pups!). While Raider primarily works daytime hours, Wyatt is on duty in the afternoons and evenings, ensuring that Watertown has a comfort dog available from morning through midnight.
Wyatt and Officer Rooney have their own cruiser to help them move efficiently around town. When not working, Wyatt enjoys playtime and bonding with Officer Rooney, especially when treats are involved. Full of youthful, “teenage” energy, Wyatt is eager and ready to serve the City of Watertown.
Residents often see Officer Rooney and Officer Wyatt around the city and at upcoming community events. While Wyatt is always happy to say hello, and may even offer a friendly fist bump. He is a working dog, so the department asks that community members check in with Officer Rooney before petting him.
PHOTOS: Meet Offer Wyatt City of Watertown
Adding to Wyatt’s presence on duty is a custom patch, worn and distributed while he is working. The patch mirrors the officers’ uniform patches, with Wyatt’s image proudly embroidered at the center, a symbol of his role and the positive impact he brings.
Wyatt’s story is a powerful reminder of how one act of service can continue to have a lasting impact. An IAM GDA | TLC-raised puppy is now serving a community, supporting first responders, and spreading comfort wherever he goes.
