Cleveland State University Therapy Dogs Recognized as Crisis K9s Under New Ohio Program

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Cleveland State University (CSU) therapy dogs Rune and Thor, yellow labrador brothers who have become familiar faces across campus, are now officially recognized by the State of Ohio as working police K9s. 

Rune and Thor arrived at Cleveland State as 11-week-old puppies in April 2022 to help launch the CSU Police Department’s (CSUPD) therapy dog program. Four years later, the pair have completed the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) Crisis K9 certification class, following the state’s formal recognition of this work as a law enforcement function. 

The new statewide recognition formalizes the role of Crisis K9s within law enforcement. OPOTA now oversees the program, including specialized training and annual recertification requirements for law-enforcement teams. The program also provides standardized training and best practices for agencies and handlers working with Crisis K9s. Rune and Thor are also being certified through First Response K-9, a new organization created specifically for law enforcement. 

Rune is partnered with Officer Toni Jones, and Thor is partnered with Officer Thomas Lear. Since joining CSU, the brothers have become an important part of campus life and unofficial mascots of the University. 

“This story isn't about a designation or a training course. It's about people. Rune and Thor have become part of the CSU community,” said CSUPD Chief Beverly Pettrey. “They have helped students through stressful moments, provided comfort when people needed it, created positive interactions with police officers and helped strengthen the relationship between our department and the University community.” 

Beyond campus, Rune and Thor also serve individuals involved in critical incidents throughout the community. CSUPD works closely with neighboring law enforcement agencies, visits patients at Cleveland Clinic and provides support to staff at the Cuyahoga County Coroner’s Office and the Journey Center. 

Learn more about Rune, Thor and other resources CSUPD provides to the campus community at csuohio.edu/police.