Dougie (Doug-e) The Drug Dog is an innovative program that was created by the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators, Inc. (NADDI®) a 501(c)(3) organization in November of 2011.
Through a grant from the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators, Inc. (NADDI), the Pierce Township Police Department in Clermont County Ohio began the Dougie the Drug Dog® program with a real-live Labrador Retriever named “Dougie”.
The purpose of the program was to provide families, schools, and communities with a friendly multi-pronged approach to educating and reducing prescription drug abuse. The program provided parents, educators, and others with quality, positive, and age appropriate prevention information for kids 2-10 years of age.
The natural attraction of children to animals allowed the police department to build strong bonds and rapport with young people. It is through this relationship that important messages are able to be delivered about prescription drug abuse and other safety issues that are facing kids today.
The National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators developed the Dougie the Drug Dog Coloring Book and website to supplement the prevention program.
While the live Dougie has since retired and is no longer in service, the coloring book and website have received updated revisions over the years and continue to be an invaluable education tool for young people in our families and communities.
The message is: Prevention is key and is best introduced at a very early age.