A former shelter dog has a new job supporting New Jersey State Troopers

SOUTHAMPTON, New Jersey – A German Shepherd named Ace has found a new home and purpose after being adopted from the Burlington County Animal Shelter. The 18-month-old dog currently serves as a patrol dog at the New Jersey State Police Red Lion Barracks in Southampton.

Adopted in August by Lieutenant Christopher Salvato, Ace reports to the barracks with Salvato every day. There, he provides support to soldiers by helping them relax and reduce anxiety and stress through his interactions.

“While Ace is not tasked with sniffing out criminal suspects, explosives or contraband, it still serves an important role for Soldiers at Red Lion Barracks,” said Burlington County Commissioner Felicia Hopson.

Inspired by the benefits Ace provides, Burlington County commissioners have approved waiving all adoption fees for first responders adopting from the county animal shelter. The policy expands existing exemptions for senior and veteran adopters. Normal adoption fees are $75 for dogs and $45 for cats.

“Research has shown that interacting with animals can help lower heart rate and blood pressure and help reduce anxiety,” said Dr. Herb Conaway, director of the Burlington County Health Department. “Expanding the free adoption policy to first responders is a proactive method to help improve the health and resilience of first responders.”

The Burlington County Animal Shelter, located at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton, is open to the public most days from noon to 4 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays. Registration is required on Wednesdays. Available animals can be viewed online on the shelter’s website.

Commissioner Dan O’Connell, who adopted his own dog from a shelter, encourages residents to consider adoption. “My dog Bingo is a wonderful companion and I have seen first-hand the positive effects spending time with him has on both my physical and mental health,” he said. “Ace is a wonderful story and we want to thank Lt. Salvato for providing him with a new, loving home and his calling as a station dog.”

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Generative AI was used to create a rough draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by the NJ Advance Media team.