Comfort Dog Program

TU's Comfort Dog

Bruno offers emotional support and companionship as part of our community-oriented approach to public safety.

He lives and works alongside TUPD patrol officer Jafar Taru, offering a comforting presence at building walk-throughs and calls for service. He works 220 days a year, so keep an eye out for him across campus and at special TUPD events.

If you see him, feel free to give him a pet or cuddle.

Bruno Updates and appearances 

Bruno has successfully passed his AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. 

Bruno's appearances may be interrupted if there is a TUPD call for service. Campus community safety is our priority! 

• Sept. 8, 2026: Sgt. Taru and Bruno will be at the Study Abroad and Away Fair being held in the University Union.
• Oct. 1, 2026: Sgt. Taru and Bruno will be particapting in the Walk with Doc helping to promote wellbeing and reduce barriers to accessing medical care. The walk with be on campus with medical doctors from the Health Center and Doc the Tiger. This walk will start in front of the University Union at 12 noon.
• Oct. 16, 2026: Sgt. Taru and Bruno will be attending the Fall 2026 Career and Intership Fair being held at the SECU Arena from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Look for them throughout the day. You can also find them in the TAF room from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for students who may need the breakaway space to regroup for a few minutess.

Supporting the TU Community

Bruno is specially trained to provide support in times of stress or crisis. Unlike traditional K-9s trained to detect substances or aid in search and rescue, his primary purpose is to reinforce the well-being of the campus community.

Bruno became a Tiger in January 2024 as a result of generous donations from the campus community.

More than 115 TU students, faculty, staff and alumni donated funds to provide the training, food and veterinary care necessary to have a dedicated comfort dog on campus. In return for their support, the campus community had the opportunity to choose Bruno’s name.  

Donations remain open to support Bruno’s care and bring additional canine companions to TU. 

Request a Meet and Greet

Bruno can stop by university-sanctioned events for short meet-and-greets when scheduling allows. Remember, puppies need their sleep!

To request an appearance, submit a comfort dog appearance request at least two weeks before the planned event. The TUPD will respond if he’s able to attend based on his handler’s work schedule.