WEST WARWICK, R.I. — On Thursday, the West Warwick Police Department gathered community members, officers and volunteers for a heartfelt procession honoring Mouse, the department’s first compassion therapy dog. The ceremony began at the local veterinary clinic where Mouse’s ashes were kept and wound down Main Street before ending in the parking lot of the town’s municipal building.

Mouse’s journey from rescue to police partner

Mouse was discovered abandoned beneath a bush in early 2025. After being rescued, she received treatment for malnourishment and lymphoma. In June 2025, the department officially adopted her, making her the first K‑9 to serve as a compassion therapy dog for West Warwick officers and the community.

Community response and upcoming memorial

Since the department announced Mouse’s passing on Oct. 17, residents have shared stories of how the gentle canine helped calm officers after stressful calls and provided comfort to citizens during difficult moments. Local businesses posted tributes on social media, and a neighborhood group organized a small flower arrangement at the police headquarters.

The department said a public memorial service will be scheduled soon, inviting families, school groups and anyone whose life was touched by Mouse’s presence. Officials emphasized that the ceremony will celebrate not only her service but also the broader value of compassion‑focused policing.

Why therapy dogs matter to public safety

Police departments across the nation have increasingly turned to therapy animals to improve mental‑health outcomes for both officers and the public. West Warwick’s adoption of Mouse reflected a growing recognition that emotional support can enhance community trust and reduce the trauma associated with law‑enforcement work.

Chief of Police John Miller noted, “Mouse reminded us that policing is about people, families, and the love we share in our neighborhoods. Her legacy will continue to guide how we serve.”

Looking ahead

As West Warwick prepares for the memorial, city leaders are also reviewing ways to expand the department’s community‑outreach programs. The town council is expected to discuss additional resources for mental‑health services, a move that aligns with the compassionate spirit Mouse embodied.

For now, the procession stands as a testament to the bond between a small town and its four‑legged guardian, illustrating how faith, family and community values intersect in everyday public‑service moments.

Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.