Therapy dog 'Watson' introduced to Yamhill County Sheriff's Office

The Yamhill County Board of Commissioners on June 11 welcomed Watson, a nearly six‑month‑old golden doodle being raised by Working Dogs of Oregon to serve as a therapy and outreach dog for the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office. Darren Campbell, speaking as a representative of Working Dogs of Oregon, said the sheriff's office purchased Watson and will cover his veterinary care while trainers are donating the raising, training and equipment.

"Watson's just getting close to being about a six‑month old golden doodle," Campbell said during the meeting, and described Watson's role as helping deputies, victims and witnesses and serving at community outreach events. Campbell and other trainers stressed Watson's temperament and ongoing training schedule; they estimated Watson will finish training in seven to nine months and will work with a handler named Will.

Managable capital costs and community donations are supporting the program, Campbell said, and the group invited public donations to offset expenses. Commissioners and staff asked about handler arrangements and practical uses: one commissioner noted Watson might be deployed after traffic crashes to calm shaken deputies, while staff confirmed the dog would be available for debriefs, victim support and public events. The room reacted warmly; the chair thanked the trainers and encouraged staff to arrange photos.

The appearance was a demonstration and informational briefing only; no county action was taken. The presentation underscored a public‑private partnership model in which the county covers purchase and veterinary expenses while a nonprofit provides training and in‑kind support.