From left, preschooler George Gutschalk, SRO Brad LaMarca, preschooler Reid Raybuck, and K-9 Kalahan pause from playing catch at Danbury Elementary School on April 20. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

BY SHERI TRUSTY

DANBURY – When Danbury students are having a bad day, they have a lot of support to help them work through their struggles. They can talk with a teacher, their principal, or School Resource Officer (SRO) Brad LaMarca, a Danbury Police Sergeant who is a constant presence at the school. Or, they can walk into LaMarca’s office and have a snuggle with his partner, K-9 Kalahan, whose professional skills are protecting kids, giving kisses, eating treats, and playing fetch.

Kalahan is a certified therapy and public facility K-9 who previously served as the Danbury Police Department’s narcotics dog. He came to the school with LaMarca when Danbury’s SRO program was implemented in 2023.

“The Danbury Police Department pushed for the SRO program. It’s a great program,” LaMarca said. “It establishes a rapport with kids at a young age. It helps build relationships for the future.”

Kalahan is at the school three days a week. As a therapy dog, Kalahan has the capability to improve students’ mental health.

From left, preschooler Reid Raybuck, SRO Brad LaMarca, and preschooler George Gutschalk play fetch with K-9 Kalahan at Danbury Elementary School on April 20. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

“Therapy dogs like Kalahan have a unique ability to ease stress, build connections, and create a calming presence in ways that are often different from human interaction,” LaMarca said. “For this reason, his role in the school is both meaningful and impactful.”

That impact on students is visible.

“Since joining the school, Kalahan has brought a noticeable sense of joy and positivity to students, staff, and visitors,” LaMarca said. “Each day, he helps welcome students as they arrive, patrols the hallways, and provides comfort to those who may need a little extra support.”

Kalahan’s training was funded by Ottawa County Prosecutor James VanEerten with strong support from the Danbury Township Trustees, the Board of Education, and local residents, making him, LaMarca said, “a true community investment.”

Danbury school leadership see the results of that investment every day.

K-9 Kalahan waits for preschooler Reid Raybuck to throw the stuffie he dropped at his feet at Danbury Elementary School on April 20. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

“Our students are greeted by a variety of adults and by Kalahan in the morning. It’s a great way to start the day, with hugs and kisses from Kalahan,” said Danbury Elementary Principal Dan Humphrey.

Middle and High School Principal, Laramie Spurlock, said he notices the excitement the kids in six through twelfth grades express each morning when they see Kalahan.

“They love him,” he said.

Kalahan is always ready for a calm hug, but he has a spirited side as well. He loves to drag his lamb stuffie into the hall for a game of fetch.

“Kalahan has a playful side that students love,” LaMarca said. “Whether it’s a quick game of fetch, a round of tug-of-war, or proudly showing off his favorite stuffed toys, he brings moments of fun and laughter into the school day. More than anything, he brings a steady source of positive energy to our school district.”

Whether he is playing or consoling, Kalahan is a comfort to the kids.

“If a kid is having a bad day because of home or school, they come visit him. They’ll lie on his bed with him,” LaMarca said. “Kalahan isn’t just a school dog. He’s a valued member of our community, and, without a doubt, he’s one of the happiest companions we could ask for.”