From Players to Puppies:  A Unique Healing Story at Indiana University

When you think back on the history of men’s college basketball, Indiana comes to mind. And so, Tim Garl has seen his fair share of exceptional athletes in need of care at the school. Yet, his latest patient, Indy, the Indiana University Police Department's explosives detection K9, presents a new challenge in Garl's 43-year tenure as the team's Athletic Trainer.

The nearly 6-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever is undergoing low-level laser therapy for arthritis, marking a first in Garl's extensive career.

The journey to treatment began when IUPD Officer Rob Botts, Indy's handler since the dog was just 8 months old, noticed troubling signs.

"The first sign I noticed was that he was hesitating to jump into the car, so I had to pick him up. Then, I noticed a bit of a limp in one of his front legs."

Diagnosed in December 2023, these conditions threatened not only Indy's wellbeing but also his crucial role in ensuring the safety of IU's campus.

Indy's work is vital. His acute sense of smell has been a cornerstone of security for thousands of IU students, faculty, and visitors during significant campus events.

Whether navigating the dense crowds of basketball games or ensuring football stadiums are free of danger, Indy's contributions are invaluable. It's this profound respect for Indy's role that prompted Garl to step outside his usual realm of human athletes and offer his expertise.

Garl's treatment of Indy involves cutting-edge laser therapy, known as photobiomodulation, conducted in the state-of-the-art Cook Hall.

This process, which lasts about 10 minutes per session, aims to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. As Indy receives his treatment, Botts is by his side, offering kibble and comfort, while Garl, equipped with protective glasses, administers the laser device.

The results have been promising. Thanks to the combined efforts of Garl and Indy's veterinarian, the beloved K9 is regaining his mobility and, more importantly, his capacity to focus on the crucial work of detecting explosives without the distraction of pain.

"Indy’s treatments are ongoing, but he’s back to navigating up and down stairs with ease and jumping into the car."

For Botts, the bond with Indy extends beyond their professional collaboration; it's a friendship that enriches every aspect of his life.

"Not many people get the luxury of spending 24 hours a day with their best friend."

The collaboration between Tim Garl and the IU Police Department highlights the versatile applications of medical treatments across species but also celebrates the profound bond between humans and their dog partners. 

Way to go, Indy! Keep getting better!