• Age: 7 to 10
• Grade: 2 to 5

When kids need a hand, offer them a paw first!

This is the coming-of-age story of Hershey, a misfit border collie, who must face his own fears and setbacks as he doggedly pursues his dream of helping kids.

Does he have what it takes to be a police therapy dog?
Will he make it through obedience school?
Will Inspector Dan forgive his foibles?
Will he know what to do on the job?

An inspiring true ‘tail’ narrated by the loveable furball himself.

Written and illustrated by two Edmonton police officers. Helps kids build trust with police. Copper and Hershey are available for school visits and speaking tours.

Val Hoglund's profile page

Liv Vors' profile page

Constable Val Hoglund aka “Copper” has been a police officer for 30 years. When she was in the Youth Unit, Copper learned about the youth and why they were committing their crimes. She wanted to do something ‘pawsitive’ about it. She doesn’t have obedience training, but she’s a restorative justice facilitator, a public speaker, and the kindest Copper ever. 


She always says: "When kids need a hand, offer them a paw first."

“I love the way Constable Val and Hershey can help children feel safe and important.” 
– Peter Smyth, Social Worker & Author, Edmonton, Alberta