Comfort Dog Program

Maple

The Exeter Police Department is proud to introduce Maple, our dedicated Comfort Dog. Maple works alongside her handler, Detective Bailey Teixeira, to support our officers and strengthen connections within the community. Comfort dogs play an important role in modern policing by helping to reduce stress, build trust, and create positive interactions between law enforcement and the public. Maple is specially trained to provide calm, non-judgmental companionship in a variety of situations. She assists officers during difficult calls, supports victims of crime, and offers comfort during times of crisis or trauma. Maple is also a familiar and friendly presence at community events, schools, and public gatherings, where she helps foster meaningful relationships and open lines of communication.

The presence of a comfort dog like Maple can have a powerful impact. For individuals experiencing anxiety, grief, or emotional distress, even a brief interaction can provide reassurance and a sense of safety. For children, Maple helps make officers more approachable and can ease fear in stressful situations. Within the department, she also contributes to officer wellness by helping reduce stress and supporting mental health. Maple represents the Exeter Police Department’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, community-focused policing. Through her work, she helps bring people together, promotes healing, and reinforces the human side of law enforcement.

If you would like to meet Maple or spend time with her, we encourage you to contact Detective Teixeira at 603-772-1212 or bteixeira@exeternh.gov. Our Comfort Dog Program is fully funded through the generosity of community donations. If you or your local business would like to support this program, please reach out to Detective Teixeira for more information.