The story of Holly, the Orland Park Police Department’s newest therapy dog, is a true “rags-to-riches” journey that reached a historic milestone last week.
Holly, a 1-year-old mixed breed, began her journey as a rescue dog in a Cook County shelter. Her path to public service started with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office “Tails of Redemption” program, where she was trained by inmates in basic obedience, giving both the dog and the trainers a sense of purpose and a fresh start.
The program, led by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board in partnership with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, certified 11 therapy canine teams from seven agencies across Illinois. It marks a significant step forward in how law enforcement agencies respond to individuals in crisis.
In late 2025, Holly was officially welcomed to Orland Park and paired with Officer Gordon Przislicki. Selected for his positive attitude and commitment to service, Officer Przislicki became Holly’s full-time handler and companion. Together, they began working 12-hour shifts to ensure therapy support is available to residents, crime victims, and fellow officers following traumatic incidents.
The dynamic duo made history when, on April 22, Holly and Officer Przislicki graduated as part of the nation’s first Crisis Response Therapy Canine Certification Program. The program included:
- Rigorous Training: The team completed specialized instruction focused on de-escalation, mental health awareness, and coordination in high-stress environments.
- A New Model: This program, a partnership between the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, creates a standardized model for integrating therapy dogs into law enforcement crisis response.
- Statewide Impact: As certified graduates, Holly and Officer Przislicki are now part of a statewide system that allows them to be deployed to assist other communities during large-scale emergencies.
Today, Holly is a beloved fixture in Orland Park, known for her “mesmerizing eyes” and busy schedule that includes visiting local schools like St. Michael School and providing much-needed breaks for police dispatchers.