Keep up with Mack's adventures on Instagram at @mackthecacdog!

Mack

Mack, a six-year-old Old English Sheepdog, is the furriest member of the CAC team. He has been in special training to be a certified therapy dog onsite. He provides comfort and affection to clients at the center, whether it be in therapy sessions, during forensic interviews, or simply interacting with him around our facility. Research shows that interacting with therapy dogs can temporarily affect neurotransmitters in the brain, raising levels of oxytocin and dopamine (feel-good hormones) while suppressing those hormones linked with stress. Therapy dogs can also help with self-confidence, brighten the day, lift spirits and motivate people. 

Mack was very carefully chosen for his calm demeanor, friendly manner, obedient nature and charm. He does not shed or drool. He loves to fetch, be brushed, play in the Healing Garden and just be around people. He has adapted extremely well to the office environment, seemingly unbothered by the amount of business going on around him and people he sees and meets on a regular basis. He is affectionate and playful, but calm when he needs to be.   

The choice of a sheepdog puppy was deliberate as well. Mack is a tribute to San Bernardino County Deputy Jeremiah MacKay and to all law enforcement who lay it on the line for us every day.  We are very excited about this unique opportunity to enhance our equally unique center. Mack has not only enriched clients' lives, but those of everyone around him as well.  ​​