Puppy Spotlight:
Koda Against Krime

Menasha has many aspects that service animals play a vital role in, from helping those in need to making someone’s day brighter.  An important member of the community in particular is Officer Koda, a 3-year-old yellow lab and golden retriever mix. 

She, like Prada and Piper, the Menasha Joint School District (MJSD) service dogs, came through the nonprofit organization Can Do Canines. 

“I applied with them and met with some of their staff, who ultimately found a dog that was best suited for this position,” said School Resource Officer Rick Heinen, who is Koda’s full-time handler. He also mentions how she was chosen for her friendly and affectionate nature, loving the attention she gets from those she helps. 

Koda’s duties aren't quite the same as your typical officer, though she still impacts numerous people while she's on duty, traveling alongside Officer Heinen wherever he goes.

“She is trained to assist with deescalating students,” Heinen says, “She will be seen walking through the halls, going into classrooms, hanging out in meetings with me, and even assisting staff with working through some of the stressors of their day.”

Koda has been around to assist for nearly a year, having joined Officer Heinen’s side in December of 2023. A true ray of sunshine, she’s brought smiles to many faces as well as being productive in keeping a calm environment wherever she goes. “Her calm and gentle demeanor has assisted many students who are having big feelings, and been able to get them back into a normal routine faster.” Heinen says.

Her knack for positivity isn't reserved for while she’s on duty, as she “loves all animals,” Heinen states, “from playing with dogs or cats, to staring out windows at birds and squirrels.”

Koda has been a valuable member of Officer Heinen’s family outside the schools as well. One dog in particular she adores is her playmate Nala, the family’s 3-year-old Rottweiler.

“The first thing she does after a long day of work is go run around and play with her best friend Nala,” Heinen says, “After their play time Koda normally will settle down and try to get as cuddly as she can.” 

“Koda has the ability to bring smiles to many faces throughout her days working in the schools, “ Heinen states. Officer Koda truly is a treasured help to those in need, and with the impacts she's made, it would be hard to imagine not having her.