Shelter Dog Makes A Brief Visit Of Police Station And Becomes The Team’s Newest Member
When Bolo, a black-and-white Bully mix, arrived at the Christian County Animal Shelter in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, no one could have imagined the remarkable journey he was about to take.
Surrendered by animal control because of his size, Bolo quickly adjusted to his new surroundings. His happy personality melted the hearts of the shelter staff, but his breed’s unfair reputation made finding a home difficult.
Months passed, and despite his friendly demeanor, Bolo remained unnoticed.
However, everything changed when he was selected for a unique opportunity that would completely transform his life.
The Visit That Changed His World
In October, the Hopkinsville Police Department launched an initiative called “Paw-Trol Wednesday,” led by Public Information Officer Royale Marfil.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
The program’s goal was to highlight adoptable shelter dogs and help them find homes. Bolo became the very first participant.
When Bolo arrived at the police station, he instantly charmed the officers. The department even shared his visit on Facebook: “Bolo is our four-legged friend who will be paw-trolling with us today!”
As the day went on, it became clear that Bolo wasn’t just another shelter dog. His playful nature and sweet personality captivated everyone.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
“Once Bolo started being comfortable and playing with everybody, everybody was asking, ‘Can we adopt him? Can we keep him?’” Marfil recalled in an interview with The Dodo.
By the end of the day, Bolo felt so at ease that he lay down in the middle of the office and fell into a deep sleep.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
“He just kind of plopped down on the floor and started snoring,” Marfil shared. “I’d say that was probably my favorite part of the day, seeing him relax completely and just fall into this deep sleep.”
When it was time to return Bolo to the shelter, he began whimpering, as though begging to stay. Marfil, deeply moved, decided to act.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
“I brought it to Chief Newby,” Marfil explained. “And he said, ‘Yeah, why not? Let’s keep him.’”
Officially Part Of The Team
The decision to make Bolo part of the department thrilled everyone. He would spend his days at the station and go home with Marfil at night.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
When Marfil bought him a new collar at PetSmart, his happiness was evident. “That’s when he got really happy,” she said. “He knew.”
In early November, Bolo’s role became official.
At a special ceremony presided over by the mayor, he was sworn in as the first Paw-trol Officer of the Hopkinsville Police Department.
The city proudly shared his achievement on Facebook, saying, “We can’t wait to follow this sweet pup’s career on the force.”
The Department’s Favorite Member
Since joining the department, Bolo has become a beloved figure. Marfil’s office now sees a steady stream of visitors eager to meet him.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
“Everyone will pop into my office to say hi to him,” Marfil said. “I think people forget that it’s my office since Bolo lives here.”
Bolo has also developed a reputation for his love of snacks.
Source: Hopkinsville Police Department
“He’s just about as much as a garbage disposal as a dog could get,” Marfil joked. “If he hears any sort of wrapper crinkling — it doesn’t matter what it is — he is right at your feet, begging for whatever it is in your hand.”
Although Bolo doesn’t take on traditional police duties, his role as a morale booster is invaluable. His presence brings joy to both the officers and the community.
