The Cortland University Police Department’s most popular officer has been described as having light brown almost blonde hair, dark brown eyes and four crime fighting paws! Meekah is the UPD’s 2 year old therapy K9, who works with her handler investigator Melissa Keelhar.
From when she was 8 weeks old, beloved english labrador retriever Meekah has been on the police force as part of the Therapy K9 program which is new to law enforcement in NY. Her training focuses on obedience and working with the public in a controlled manner. Contrary to popular belief her training is not a one and done scenario but rather a continuous part of Meekah’s routine throughout her entire career.
Having Meekah as a part of the UPD gives SUNY Cortland many advantages over other universities that lack the presence of a K9. According to Investogator Keelhar, Meekah aids our community in various ways including with comfort, especially sexual assault victums, mental health crises, death notifications, court appearances and other victim interviews. Investigator Keelhar also said Meekah helps to bridge the gap between university police and the campus community by assisting in opening the door for meaningful conversations.
“Providing Meekah as an additional resource helps to show that the University Police are committed to making changes in law enforcement that best suits the needs of the community,” said Investigator Keelhar.
The world of K9 training is rather new to investigator Keelhar as Meekah is her first K9. Meekah was also the first therapy K9 across the SUNY community.
In their free time Investigator Keelhar said Meekah loves to swim and go for hikes.With Meekah being such a high energy dog she loves to be outside doing anything and everything she possibly can. Outside of the office investigator Keelhar’s responsibilities are that of any pet owner, which include providing full care, making sure she exercises and ensuring that she maintains her skills as a K9.
“The best part of working with Meekah is seeing the positive differences that she makes in people’s lives,” said Investigator Keelhar.
There are two opportunities left to meet Meekah this semester, during the EAPs “Wednesdays with K9 Meekah” walks on April 9 and May 14 activities typically begin at 12 p.m..