The Batavia City Council on April 21 formally welcomed and administered an oath to River, a fox red Labrador retriever appointed as the Batavia Police Department’s comfort dog.

River joined the department on Aug. 16, 2024, and staff described training and appearances the dog has made at community events, school visits and public outreach. River’s responsibilities were described as providing comfort, de‑escalation support and community engagement. The oath, delivered in the council chambers and recorded on BATV, included River’s pledge (read by the mayor) to provide companionship and calm at community events.

City staff and presenters thanked donors and partners who supported the program, including Batavia Animal Clinic (donation of routine veterinary services), Petland Batavia (food and treats), Wolf Beach Batavia (discounted obedience training), Ridgeview Labradors (breeder) and private financial donors. The department also commemorated the late Officer Joe Gadella, a department advocate for acquiring a K‑9 or comfort dog.

Mayor Jeffrey D. Schulke and council members praised the program during the swearing‑in. Staff said River will appear at community events, visit dispatch and other departments for stress relief visits, and partner with schools and outreach programs in Batavia.