Patrolman Brings Trusty Canine to Public Library

Visitors to the had a unique experience on Wednesday afternoon, as not only was Patrolman Fred Cistaro in attendance, but he brought with him Doyan, his trusty police dog.

About 25 children attended the program, where Cistaro taught the children all about how the dogs assist the policemen on their everyday duty.

He began by talking about how Doyan was brought over from Belgium, and since coming to West Long Branch, he has completed his training, complete with going over hurdles and avoiding vehicles.

“We basically simulate all types of situations these dogs might find themselves in,” Cistaro said.

Many of the adults in attendance then had the opportunity to ask questions of the officer, discussing the relationship Cistaro had with the canine.

One person asked whether or not the police had bulletproof vests for the dogs, and Cistaro said they do, but the vests are only used in extreme situations.

The patrolman was also asked what happens when he has to work and needs to leave the dog in the car. He explained that he has a button on his keys which controls the temperature of the car, that way the dog would be able to stay in the vehicle for long periods of time without being in any danger.

“He’s got it better than me, he’s quite comfortable in there,” the patrolman joked. “Now if I could only get him to drive my car, I’d be set!” 

One woman asked the patrolman what happens with the dog after hours, and he said the dog lives with him and his family. He said his kids love the dog, and he relaxes at home, but when it’s time for work, the dog is ready to go. 

“Doyan’s got a lot of drive and intensity,” Cistaro said.

Cistaro then went on to talk about some of the jobs that Doyan has accompanied him on, including drug busts and bomb threats. He explained that part of training for the dogs is distinguishing between food and drugs, and this was something the patrolman saw firsthand on one occasion. 

“We once searched a car, and in the backseat was a bag of Burger King," he said. "Doyan ignored the burgers and fries and found drugs inside the seat cushion."

The patrolman then had Doyan do a quick exhibition for the children, as another police officer held up an arm protector while Doyan ran at him and grabbed the protector with his teeth.

After the completion of the exhibition, the question was asked of what commands the officer yelled at the dog in order to get him to perform these tasks. He noted beside English, he communicates with the dog in another language, that way he can control the dog without criminals being able to command the dogs themselves. 

The event concluded right after with an ovation from all of the children and their parents, thanking the officer for bringing the police dog into the library and teaching them about his work. 

Sharon Hazard, the children’s librarian at the West Long Branch Public Library, said she thought it was a really fun event and one she was happy to take part in. 

“This was great, and the kids always love anything to do with animals at the library,” Hazard said.