Meet SLU's Officer JULA

Story by Betsy O'Leary | Photos by Riyen Helg

There’s a new member of the Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department — and this one has four legs, or rather, paws, and loves attention.

Southeastern President William S. Wainwright and University Police Chief Michael Beckner recently announced the addition of the first K-9 officer to the university’s police force. Jula, a two-year-old German Shepherd from Poland, is trained to detect explosive devices. She was chosen because of her high drive to perform and non-aggressive personality, which makes her a highly prized asset on campus. Interestingly, Jula’s commands are given and understood in Czech, a language handler, Sgt. Michelle Blanchard was unfamiliar with it before attending a three-week Liberty Hills, Texas training course.

While in Texas, Sgt. Blanchard and Jula trained daily to detect odors associated with military, commercial, or homemade explosives, allowing them to become certified in explosives detection. The trained duo are available to parish agencies that need help, like responding to threats at local high schools. Jula is also routinely used at Louisiana State University to clear the stadium the night before Tigers’ games.

Strong Bond Between Handler and K-9

To strengthen the existing bond between Sgt. Blanchard and Jula, the pair, not only work together, but they also live together. No other officer can give her commands or treats while on duty. As German Shepherds are working breeds, they are happiest when given jobs to do. Sgt. Blanchard reinforces Jula’s training by putting her through her paces in demonstrations at the university. A working K-9 officer dedicates seven to nine years of their life to the job. After that, they are officially retired and will live the rest of their lives with their beloved handlers.

Benefits Outweigh the Costs of K-9 Officer

Buying and training an explosive-detecting dog is expensive. While Chief Beckner states that grants are available, the waiting list is quite long. Last year, the university earmarked funds in its budget to acquire its new four-legged officer. Jula is present at all SLU events and is the most in-demand officer on the university police force. When she is working, Jula’s full attention is focused on Sgt. Blanchard and the commands she’s given. But in her downtime, Jula can interact with students and other visitors. She basks in the attention she attracts and loves being petted when not on the job. Jula also helps calm highstress situations simply by being highly socialized and approachable.

Working dogs require special high-protein diets and regular vet exams to keep them in tip-top shape and ready to react to any threats at the university or within the community. Both Chief Beckner and Sgt. Blanchard would like to thank everyone who gave monetary donations for food and veterinary care for Jula at the recent Giving Day at SLU.

The next time you find yourself on campus, be on the lookout for the lovable ball of fur with her toothy grin and incredible nose. Jula may lack opposable thumbs, making it difficult for her to make the “Lion Up” sign, but she certainly makes up for it in SLU spirit!