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comfort for victims and many more

Lacombe Police welcome ‘Rally’ the support dog

May 5, 2026 | 4:39 PM

Rally has arrived, and Rally is the newest support dog at Lacombe Police Services and Victim Services, LPS shared Tuesday.

Rally will provide support and comfort to victims, witnesses, community members, plus police officers and civilian staff.

Trained and placed through support from the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides, based in Oakville, Ontario, the pup is highly trained, and at a cost of about $35,000.

That was made possible through a sponsorship by Kelly Rodrigues, and fundraising through the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, which takes place May 31 across Canada. That includes events in Alix and Ponoka.

“Rally represents an important enhancement to the compassionate care we provide in our community,” said Jason Dobirstein, Chief of Police for Lacombe Police Service.

“In addition to supporting victims and witnesses, Rally will also play an important role in supporting the wellness of our police officers and civilian staff, who are regularly exposed to challenging and high-stress situations.”

Rally was also fostered prior to being placed with LPS officially, by the Bast family in Ontario.

LPS adds that Rally’s arrival marks a meaningful step forward in strengthening trauma-informed, victim-centered services and supporting member wellness within the Lacombe community.