In this episode, we welcome Wellness Officer Percy, a brown and white bunny rabbit in a tiny K9 police uniform and his spokesperson, Lieutenant Michelle Brazil. They work at the Yuba Police Department in Yuba City, California.

This forward-thinking police department in Northern California recruited a bunny rabbit as part of a push to focus on the mental health of its staff. Emotional support animals have become increasingly popular in recent years. A fardel of research studies concurs about pets’ health benefits for their owners. Studies show that just petting an animal can decrease depression and anxiety, and it can boost emotional and cognitive brain activity.

Host: Marie-Line Germain, Ph.D.

Mixing: Kelly Minnis

https://www.yubacity.net/city_hall/departments/police_department

https://www.facebook.com/yubacitypolicedepartment/