Dog trains to work for Olympia Police, but he's a softy

In about a year, Semper is expected to qualify as a therapy dog and be able to work with crime victims, reported The Olympian (http://bit.ly/2bcKjF6).

When he's about 18 months old, he'll go through the Therapy Dogs International exam, so that he'll be qualified to work with victims during difficult interviews.

Sola Del Vigo said she's proud of how he handled being in a room with so many people.

The following day, the Police Department released a video featuring Semper doing a variety of things — waking up, boarding an Intercity Transit bus, and sitting down for school with Melnic.

Making the video also served as a training exercise for Semper, taking him to places he might not normally visit.

The Olympia Police Department's K9 program has become one of the most visible aspects of the department, with Melnic visiting schools and community gatherings.

Sola Del Vigo makes sure that the training stays fun and positive.

Semper has done a lot to boost morale in the Olympia Police Department, and can often be found in the building.