Former Shelter Dog Has New Job Supporting New Jersey State Troopers

Oct. 28, 2024

A German Shepherd named Ace has found a new home and purpose after being adopted from the Burlington County Animal Shelter.

By N.J. Community News, NJ.com (TNS)

Ace, an 18-month-old German Shepherd, was adopted from the animal shelter in August by New Jersey State Police Lt. Christopher Salvato to serve as a station canine at the State Police's Red Lion barracks in Southhampton.

SOUTHAMPTON, New Jersey -- A German Shepherd named Ace has found a new home and purpose after being adopted from the Burlington County Animal Shelter. The 18-month-old dog now serves as a station canine at the New Jersey State Police’s Red Lion barracks in Southampton.

Adopted in August by Lt. Christopher Salvato, Ace reports to the barracks with Salvato each day. There, he provides support to the troopers, helping them relax and reduce anxiety and stress through his interactions.

“Though Ace isn’t assigned the task of sniffing out criminal suspects, explosives or contraband, he still performs an important service for the troopers in the Red Lion barracks,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson.

Inspired by the benefits Ace provides, the Burlington County Commissioners have approved waiving all adoption fees for first responders adopting from the County animal shelter. The policy expands on existing waivers for senior and veteran adopters. Normal adoption fees are $75 for dogs and $45 for cats.

“Studies have shown interactions with pets can help lower an individual’s heart rate and blood pressure, and help reduce anxiety,” said Dr. Herb Conaway, director of the Burlington County Health Department. “Expanding the free adoption policy to include first responders is a proactive method to help improve first responders’ health and resiliency.”

The Burlington County Animal Shelter, located at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton, is open for walk-in visits most days from noon to 4 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays. Appointments are required on Wednesdays. Available pets can be viewed online at the shelter’s website.

Commissioner Dan O’Connell, who adopted his own dog from the shelter, encourages residents to consider adoption. “My dog Bingo is a wonderful companion, and I’ve seen first-hand the positives that spending time with him has had on both my physical and mental health,” he said. “Ace is a great story, and we want to thank Lt. Salvato for giving him a new loving home and calling as a station dog.”

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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.