As part of my role at Corrections, I convinced my manager to let me oversee our relationship with the dog section. With limited visibility within the Department despite some external promotions through Dog Squad and Puppy School, this opportunity was a dream come true for me, given my passion for animals and my appreciation for the dog section's vital work in maintaining safety at Corrections sites.
Detector Dog Cards
Our collaboration began with the creation of detector dog cards. Inspired by a similar initiative from another agency, I designed these cards with input from the dog section to ensure they were light-hearted and engaging for distribution at community events and schools. I wrote content that highlighted each handler and dog's unique personalities, making each card special while maintaining a consistent layout.
The cards have become highly popular, almost collectible, with frequent inquiries about them. Their success led me to advocate for their upload to our external website, extending their reach further. This project not only showcased the incredible work of our detector dog teams but also strengthened community engagement and appreciation for the dog section's efforts. Leading this project was a rewarding experience, and I was thrilled to see the positive reception it received.
Photography
One of my favorite responsibilities while overseeing the promotion for the dog section is photographing the dogs and their handlers. These sessions are a great way to engage staff and provide handlers with a well-deserved break from their often stressful work.
I capture a variety of activities for the dog team, including promotions, Christmas cards, training sessions, graduations, profile shoots, and retirements. Each session highlights the bond between the handlers and their dogs, showcasing their dedication and vital work.
Being called out for a dog job is always a highlight of my day. These photography sessions not only enhance the visibility of the dog section’s efforts but also contribute to a positive and engaging work culture within the Department.
Pup-date internal campaign
I created the "Pup-date" internal campaign to celebrate the birth of the first Corrections-bred litter, marking a significant milestone for the dog section. The campaign unfolded in four stages, providing insights into the training and development of the pups at three, six, nine, and twelve months.
Each update highlighted the handlers' dedication, the bond between handler and dog, and the challenges faced during training. The campaign was well-received, with staff appreciating the chance to follow the pups' journey and learn about the dog section's work.
This project allowed me to blend my design and writing skills, producing content that was visually appealing and engaging. It was rewarding to see the positive impact on staff, boosting morale and creating something enjoyable to look forward to.
Examples of pup-dates on internal site and the headers created for the campaign.