BPD Comfort Dog Copper Handles Two Events Daily Across Districts
Officer Tim Wilson reports that the Fox Red Labrador serves as a key resource for community engagement and officer support.
By Zoe Harrison ·
The Boston Police Department’s first and only comfort dog, a Fox Red Labrador named Copper, works two events a day across city districts. Officer Tim Wilson, a Dorchester native who serves as her handler, stated that the pair generally receives requests from various precincts to supplement community outreach efforts.
The newest development in Copper’s schedule occurred last Tuesday at the Keystone Apartments in Dorchester. She appeared as a surprise guest at the building’s annual Halloween party. Residents in the Sam Sawtelle Community Room left their dinner tables and the dance floor to greet the dog, who is approaching her third birthday.
Wilson has maintained a regular presence at Keystone for some time. He noted that the residents participate in walking programs and coffee gatherings with the officer and dog. He observed that residents are consistently excited to see Copper and often express a desire to keep her longer than the visit allows.
Long-time resident Dianne Ransom, who has lived at Keystone for 24 years, described the dog’s impact as obvious despite her quiet demeanor. Ransom, who identified as a dog lover, said Copper brings joy to everyone she meets. Another resident, Gwen Porter, shared a different perspective. Porter was bitten by a dog during her childhood and described herself as terrified of them. She said Copper’s calm nature helped her overcome that fear. Porter even showed Copper to her family on a video call from the building lobby, noting their shock and pride.
Copper joined the BPD ranks in 2024. She passed her Canine Good Citizen test in October of that year and passed her Advanced Canine Good Citizen Test in April 2025. Wilson said he took her training seriously, bringing her home at three and a half months old to build a strong working relationship. He emphasized the importance of balancing her workload with her happiness to keep her interactions effective.
Jocelyn Dame, Copper’s breeder from Dame Dogs Labradors, attributed the dog’s temperament to both her lineage and her training. Dame said Jeff Cruz of Boston Canine trained Copper to bring out the best in her genetics. Dame noted that comfort dogs are beneficial for officers who have experienced stressful cases or high-pressure days, helping to introduce calmness and happiness into their routines.
When not on duty, Copper enjoys walks and swimming with her brothers, Fergus and Rocket. Wilson noted that she has a fondness for a stuffed bear in a pink tutu and eats clementines, a habit he said is unique to her. The dog’s official email address is Copper@pd.boston.gov, allowing the public to follow her work through the bureau’s digital channels.
