HUBBARD, Ohio - The Hubbard Police Department is adding a furry friend to their team.

The department is swearing in the city's first therapy dog Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Administration Building.

Oakley the labradoodle was rescued by Hubbard Police Chief Robert Thompson from the Mahoning County Dog Pound.

Chief Thompson did not anticipate Oakley joining the department but saw the effect dogs had on his elderly parents and thought he could bring joy to the people of the city.

"Police agencies across the country have started adding therapy dogs to their departments. We look forward to making Oakley an official member of the City of Hubbard Police Department. Not only will Oakley be able to provide emotional support to victims of traumatic events as well as witnesses, he will also be able to provide emotional support to our own officers and other first responders. Through our partnership with Hubbard Schools, we also look forward to Oakley being able to work with students," said police chief Robert Thompson.

Oakley is expected to finish his training to become a certified therapy dog in the next couple of months.

The K9 Campus in Hubbard donated its services to formally train him. The Sudsy Dog of Hubbard has donated its grooming services and Town and Country Veterinary Hospital is donating its time and services to care for Oakley.