Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s familiar four-legged Jaguar fan is ready for game day.
Scout, the University’s Victim Assistance Dog, recently received a brand-new wardrobe featuring a jersey for every A&M-San Antonio athletic sport. Now, Scout can cheer on Jaguar student-athletes while proudly representing their teams from the sidelines.
Scout’s new collection made its debut during Student-Athlete Orientation on August 24, where she helped welcome Jaguar student-athletes back to campus. But Scout’s most important role happens away from the field.
As the Victim Assistance Dog for Victim Services and Crime Prevention, Scout is trained to help comfort crime victims and witnesses. Her role is to help reduce stress and anxiety and create a more comfortable environment for individuals who may be experiencing the aftermath of a traumatic event.
“Scout is an important part of that work. Having a trusted resource and loving dog can help someone process the next steps they need to take,” said University Police Sergent, Karen Tucker-Engel.
Sergent Tucker-Engel role as the Victim Services and Crime Prevention officer and Scout’s handler is to provide a safe, private place for members of the University community to discuss concerns about sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, domestic violence and other crimes. The University Police Department office works with University Police and the Bexar County judicial system to support victims and witnesses, reduce trauma and connect individuals with available services.
“Victim Services is here to make sure victims know they are not alone. Students need someone who can help them understand their rights, their options and the resources available to them,” said Sergent Tucker-Engel.
For Sergent Tucker-Engel, Scout is more than a companion at work, she is a partner in helping people through difficult moments.
Keep an eye out for Scout on game days and catch her representing your sport!