Trinity Health adds four dogs to a Grand Rapids hospital for security and therapy purposes.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Trinity Health Saint Mary’s in Grand Rapids announced a new pilot canine program.

The goal of the program is to reduce workplace violence and supporting employee morale.

The dogs will be at the hospital campus to help de-escalate tense situations.

Director of Security and Emergency Preparedness David Kiddle says over the last year, there's been about 400 incidents.  They ranged from verbal abuse to assault. The dogs and handlers are now there to assist in a tense or violent situation.

They will also serve as therapy type dogs.

The four dogs in the program include two Dutch Shepherds and two Belgian Malinois Shepherds.

The dogs will rotate working 24/7 shifts with a Trinity Health Grand Rapids security officer.