The K-9 unit is a specialized team that makes use of the unique senses and abilities that a dog has to offer. The K-9 team is used to:
- Track suspects or lost individuals
- Apprehend suspects
- Protect the K-9 deputy
- Locate drugs
Training
K-9 handlers and their K-9 partners complete a 16 week training program before being placed into active duty. A deputy assigned to a K-9 partner is also responsible for the dog’s ongoing training and dedicates many hours to honing the dog’s skills.