All photos courtesy of the NYPD. Chaplin spends some time with NYPD Commissioner James P. O'Neill. 

On Friday, June 22, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner James P. O’Neill joined the ASPCA in spotlighting the importance of reporting animal cruelty and pet adoption by inviting a very special canine friend to join him and his team at One Police Plaza for Take Your Dog to Work Day. 

That special dog was Chaplin, a three-year-old Shih Tzu, who was recently rescued from Brooklyn’s 83rd Precinct. Chaplin was allegedly abandoned in an apartment with a severely damaged leg due to matted, overgrown hair that had cut off the circulation to his limb. After being brought to the ASPCA Animal Hospital (AAH) for care, veterinarians made the difficult decision to remove the affected leg. Despite his injuries, Chaplin has made an incredible recovery and will soon be ready for a safe, loving home.

While we focus on Chaplin’s care, recovery and eventual home, the NYPD Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad is actively investigating this case.  

During his day on the job, Chaplin was presented with an honorary commissioner’s badge, got to hang out with McGruff the Crime Dog, met with Chief of Patrol Rodney Harrison, joined a media security briefing for this past weekend’s Pride Parade and made lots of new officer friends along the way.

“Our partnership with the ASPCA plays a critical role in fighting animal cruelty and upholding New York City’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable animals, like Chaplin,” said Commissioner O’Neill. “The success of our partnership relies on the public’s participation in order to have the greatest lifesaving potential, and we encourage New Yorkers to continue reporting suspected animal cruelty to help us stop abuse and save lives.” 

Now in its fifth year, the ASPCA/NYPD partnership has resulted in the treatment of 3,000 animals throughout New York City. Through this collaboration, the NYPD takes the lead role in responding to all animal cruelty complaints in the five boroughs, and the ASPCA provides direct care for the victims, as well as training, veterinary forensic and legal support for the NYPD. 

“Since our partnership with the NYPD began five years ago, the ASPCA has saved thousands of animal victims in New York City who were suffering in silence,” said Howard Lawrence, Vice President of ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement. “Our hope is that New Yorkers will continue to speak up when they suspect animal cruelty, and consider opening their hearts and homes to survivors, like Chaplin, whose ability to recover and become a loving pet is truly inspiring.” 

Chaplin’s special day was a treat for all, and though he won’t be returning to One Police Plaza any time soon, he will always be considered an honorary member of the NYPD.