The Canine Unit consists of two officers and two specially trained Belgian Malinois Police Service Dogs (PSDs).  The Canine Unit has been an important part of the department for over 20 years.  The combined efforts of human and animal skills have resulted in many successes for our police department.  These efforts include the apprehension of numerous suspects, and the locating of missing persons.  The Police Service Dogs have found contraband, including guns and illicit narcotics, and have helped with the seizure of large quantities of cash.  Police canines also provide protection for the handler and can access places humans cannot go.

Police Service Dogs and their handlers are the most highly trained members of the department.  After completing an extensive initial canine training academy, Police Service Dogs and their handlers attend monthly training to keep their skills fresh. This training can include narcotics detection, protection duties (apprehending suspects), and search-and-rescue operations.  The standards are high, and the canines must obey their handler without hesitation.  Police canines and their handlers must be able to work under the most trying and adverse conditions.

The Canine Unit saves the department hundreds of hours each year performing duties that a regular patrol officer would have to do otherwise.  Police Service Dogs are especially helpful and time-saving when searching large areas, buildings and vehicles.  The Police Service Dog’s ability to smell is thousands of times greater than that of a human.  A canine can quickly render a building safe for entry by officers, allowing for further searching.  Police Service Dogs are particularly useful in vehicle pursuits, as these often end in foot pursuits.  The Police Service Dog’s superior speed and tracking ability cannot be matched. 

The Canine Unit also responds to requests for assistance by allied agencies, as well as presenting demonstrations for local schools, community groups, and the Community Police Academy.  Currently, one of the Police Service Dogs is assigned to the SWAT Team.  Having a canine and handler as a part of the SWAT Team has proven to be a definite safety benefit. 

Police Service Dog handlers exemplify true dedication to the community they serve.  The handlers for these fine animals often spend countless hours of their own time caring for their dogs.  The dogs usually become a beloved pet and part of the handler’s personal family.