For the YSU Police Academy commander--the seed was planted more than a year ago.

"The concept of the program started with several students that I had in the academy, after graduating and going to police departments, committed suicide.", said Edward Villone, commander at the YSU Police Academy.

These tragedies served as a catalyst to tackle mental health challenges facing cadets and veterans and others dealing with PTSD.

"I finally reached out to several sources and came up with K9s for Warriors out of Jacksonville, Florida.", Villone explained.

Almost a year later, the organization donated Scooby, 2-year-old, Plott Hound mix to the academy.

"He's trained to feel the emotions of people essentially, and understands that they are in distress.", said Villone adding that Scooby is a fully-trained therapy dog and not a traditional emotional support animal.

Cadets and other students are already enjoying the dog's presence saying he's helped boost morale and lift spirits around him.

"Some people may be afraid to speak up and he can sense that and if he's gravitating toward us...a commander could say he's bonding with this person a lot, maybe we should talk to them.", said Illeana Villigrana, a cadet in the academy.

Grant funding from Mahoning County Commissioners and the J. Ford Foundation are covering food and veterinary care costs. Villone says he'll seek out other funding when needed.