Bear, a dedicated comfort dog at Western New England University, has spent his entire life working alongside his primary handler, Officer Ally, offering support and companionship to students and staff. Now, due to an employment transition, his handler is seeking to uphold an agreement made with former Police Chief Adam Woodrow to purchase Bear and ensure he remains in the loving home where he has always belonged.

Why This Matters
Bear is more than just a comfort dog—he is a family member, a loyal companion, and a trained support animal who thrives on stability and routine. Since the inception of this program, Ally has been solely responsible for his training, care, and well-being. Removing him from this environment would not only cause him extreme distress but could also compromise his ability to fulfill his role as a comfort dog.

Furthermore, Bear faces unique medical challenges, including severe food and environmental allergies that require consistent and specialized care. His current handler has diligently managed his treatment regimen, ensuring his health and comfort. Relocating Bear to an unfamiliar environment with a new caretaker unfamiliar with his specific needs could result in serious health complications.

The Agreement Must Be Honored
The agreement between Bear’s handler, Chief Woodrow, and his breeder was made in good faith with WNEU, granting the option to purchase Bear should the need arise. The university has consistently covered Bear’s care expenses under this agreement, demonstrating its recognition of the arrangement’s validity. The VP of WNEU signed the policy. Now, honoring this commitment is not only an ethical obligation but also a testament to the university’s integrity.

Disrupting Bear’s Life is Harmful
Comfort dogs, like police K9s, form deep, inseparable bonds with their handlers. Bear has shown clear signs of distress when separated from his primary handler, struggling to perform his duties and displaying anxiety-related behaviors. Testimonials from his secondary handler and veterinarian confirm that removing him from his home would have severe emotional and psychological effects. Keeping Bear with his handler is the only humane option.

Join Us in Urging Western New England University to Do the Right Thing
By signing this petition, you are standing up for Bear’s well-being and advocating for ethical best practices in comfort dog placement. We urge Western New England University to honor the original agreement and allow his handler to purchase Bear, ensuring that he remains in the safe, loving environment he has always known.

Please sign and share this petition to help us keep Bear where he belongs—with his family. Together, we can make a difference and protect the bond that Bear and his handler have built over the years.

#SaveBear #HonorTheAgreement #KeepBearHome