University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Adds Second K9
The department's new Labrador Retriever will serve students as a therapy dog and explosive detection trainee.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Dogs
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Police Department has added Lucky, a six-month-old black Labrador Retriever, to its K9 unit. The dog officially began his role on campus as a therapy animal and trainee for explosive ordnance detection.
Why it matters
Adding a second working dog is part of an effort by the campus police to better support the emotional and safety needs of the student community. This program expansion continues a departmental trend of maintaining specialized canine support, following the arrival of K9 Sophie last year.
Lucky is a six-month-old black Labrador Retriever trained by Warrior Paws. He serves as the second active K9 at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Police Department, joining K9 Sophie who started one year ago.
The players
University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Police Department
The campus law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining safety and student support services through initiatives like the K9 program.
Warrior Paws
A nonprofit organization that provides specialized training for working dogs, including the Labrador Retriever Lucky.
Aaron Bayer
The officer who serves as the designated handler for the newly introduced K9 Lucky.
Ginger Dockery
The officer who serves as the handler for the department's existing working dog, K9 Sophie.
The details
Lucky serves as a therapy animal for students while simultaneously undergoing specialized training for explosive ordnance detection. Handled by Aaron Bayer, the Labrador Retriever was sourced from the Georgia-based nonprofit Warrior Paws. The department intends to maintain the K9 program as a permanent resource, planning to introduce new dogs as older working animals reach retirement.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: K9 Lucky officially began his work duties at the department.
The Home Front
The addition of a new K9 reflects a broader trend of university police departments expanding canine programs to balance security needs with campus well-being. This growth follows established precedents for integrated K9 units in higher education environments.
Students and faculty can expect to see Lucky on campus as he continues his training and performs therapy duties. The department plans to continue this program long-term, ensuring ongoing canine support is available for the campus community.
The takeaway
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga continues to invest in specialized canine support to enhance campus safety and student support. Residents and students should look for updates from the police department regarding opportunities for therapeutic interaction with the new K9.
Further reading
For more on campus pet programs, visit the Dogs section.
