Supporting
&
Protecting
Our K9 Heroes
Ready to Serve
We provide our County law enforcement with the K9 Unit funds they need to efficiently respond, identify, and find people who need their help, deter crime, and improve safety for everyone living, doing business, and visiting here.
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How K9s Help
Join our small
but mighty pack!
Our Ongoing Initiatives
Creating A Pawsitive Impact
K9 Units are essential for officers and the communities they serve. Our law enforcement officers need highly trained K9s to meet the growing needs of our population succumbing to drug use and homelessness throughout the county.
K9s attending community events enhance security and public safety. Studies show that their visible presence significantly deters and reduces criminal activity, aids in de-escalating potentially dangerous interactions, and creates a much safer environment.
K9s receive extensive training for specialized tasks such as explosives and drug detection, search and rescue, and tracking. Their ability to detect threats, alert their handlers, react quickly, and neutralize threats plays a fundamental role in protecting our officers. K9s can also quickly cover large areas improving search efficiency for missing persons and suspects.
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Currently, when a K9 is injured or retires, there's often months or even years when a department is awaiting their next trained and certified K9 to join them. This lag time is often due to the initial expense of purchasing and training, which is approximately $25,000 - $30,000. SCK9HF will assist in bridging that gap.
For more information: https://www.nationalpolicedogfoundation.org/
K9 Acquisition
Bringing in New Recruits
Raising funds for acquiring and training K9s throughout Skagit County are crucial for the preparation of aging or injured K9s. By providing consistent and timely coverage for our growing population, our K9 Units can provide coverage without interruption, which improves safety and security for everyone.
Equipment Supply
Outfitting Our Heroes
Ensuring our K9s are well-equipped is essential for their safety and effectiveness. Providing high-quality equipment and gear, such as Kevlar vests, protect our precious K9s.
Training Programs
Sharpening Skills
Providing funds for training programs to enhance the skills of our K9s. Specialized training sessions and workshops, provide critical exposure to real-life scenarios, which prepare our K9s to safely and successfully perform their vital roles. K9s enhanced senses assess their environment. They then communicate with their handler, who in turn determines the appropriate response.
Proper Care & Handling
Prioritizing the health and well-being of both our active duty and retired K9s by offering medical support, wellness tools/toys, and a customized nutritional diet, ensuring these powerful, high performance dogs are in optimal condition to fulfill their duties as well as enjoy their golden years.