Welcome to Whitecourt, Karson

After nearly a two-year process, Eagle Tower Victim Services receive their new partner to assist victims in times of need. The partner is unique as he’s a black Labrador named Karson.

Tina Prodaniuk, Program Manager for Eagle Tower Victim Services, said, “From birth the original handlers knew he would be a working dog; therefore, they began training from an early age. Karson spent the last six months doing intensive training at the Oakville facility after which he was ready to be placed.”

Prodaniuk, along with with court liaison and primary handler for Eagle River Tower Victim Services Suzanne Carlson spent 10 days at the Oakville facility training side by side with Karson before being released October 30 to Whitecourt which will now be his new home.

Prodaniuk said, “He will help us in court as well as in our office with victims of crime and tragedy. For being a year and a half old, Karson is well trained. Having a dog will bring a new level of service in our community to those in need. We have some tough crimes that are happening, and I think Karson can make it easier for the victims going through the process of the court system and during the times of these tragic events. He can assist in bringing a sense of calm to the room and atmosphere.” Karson has many commands and a few unusual ones such as visit, hug, and mat. The mat command is an important one during the trial as Karson has learned to stay by the victim on his mat during the court case and not go to his handler. Prodaniuk added, “Karson will also be very helpful at the RCMP detachment as he can be present when people have to write statements and speak with the RCMP.”

Paramount Resources and Shell Canada donated the funds to enable Karson to live in our community as well as Global Pet Foods,who sponsors Karson’s food.