OSHKOSH, Wis. — Canines have protected law enforcement officers since about the 1960s, according to a Department of Justice report. The report also says canines serve as a psychological deterrent to criminal behavior. 

These four-legged companions are now providing a different kind of service: Therapy.

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office's newest team member is their facility dog Gracie who works with Corrections Deputy Devin Wilson.

Wilson has three years on the force. He said for him it’s a dream partnership. Gracie is a standard poodle and will work in the Corrections Division as part of the new STAR Program (Sobriety Treatment Assisted Recovery).

“I love coming to work. Now, I get to bring a dog with me. Just makes the job fun,” Deputy Wilson said.

This dog-lover is caring for canines both at home and at work. Deputy Wilson owns a four-year-old golden retriever named Roxie. He said off-duty life can be pretty chaotic as Roxie becomes a big sister to one-year-old Gracie.

“They get along almost too well. It gets a little hectic at home. Sometimes, they love to play with each other. It’s been a super easy transition since we brought her home,” Wilson said.

A day at work for Gracie starts with breakfast, comforting victims of crimes and socializing with the inmates.

After an outdoor break, it’s back inside for Gracie to rest and be pet. It’s when sheriff’s office employee Megan Gray can stop by for a visit. Gray said she’s grateful for Gracie.

“It’s wonderful. It’s very fulfilling and helpful and Gracie makes all of us better people,” Gray said.

A big reason Wilson became a law enforcement officer is to help others. While this tandem is both trained to work with people, Wilson said it feels good to see Gracie provide a special type of support.

“People light up when she comes into the pods or when I bring it around to the other staff members. You can tell it definitely makes their day, so I’m really happy that I get to work with her every day,” Deputy Wilson said.