House Hits Dog Days Of Session

Some things are just too cute. Here, Rep. Paul Donato (left) pets Ben Franklin, a 5-year-old golden retriever who works as a community service dog in the Franklin Police Department, on July 24, 2024, joined by Rep. Jeff Roy (center) and 11-year-old Ellie Dalton.

Just before plunging into an acrimonious session marked by personal attacks between legislators, the House took a momentary break Wednesday from its blitz of business to stand and applaud an honored guest of Rep. Jeff Roy: Ben Franklin.

No, not that Ben Franklin. This one has four legs.

Beacon Hill was abuzz for the visit from Ben Franklin, a 5-year-old golden retriever who works as a community service dog in the Franklin Police Department.

Shortly after the House recognized its canine guest, representatives streamed out of the chamber to pose for selfies or award Ben Franklin some much-deserved pats on the head.

It's not his first brush with fame -- Ben Franklin has already earned local media headlines several times, including when police captured video of him hoarding donated holiday toys in 2019.

Yes, Ben, legislating IS a lot like making sausage!