The Frankfort Board of Works and Public Safety approved the Frankfort Police Department\u2019s request to provide care to retired FPD K9s. \u00a0The program allows for funding to the police officer who adopts the K9 upon retirement. \u00a0Currently, FPD K9 handlers adopt the K9 with full responsibility of expenses related to the K9.\u00a0 Funding will allow for reimbursement of up to $1,000 to come from the FPD budget or the K9 donation account.<\/p>\n

According to Chief Scott Shoemaker, \u201cK9s work the same hours as our handlers and are sometimes the first to go into dangerous incidents. \u00a0After years of extensive training and long work hours, they deserve our continued support.\u201d<\/p>\n

FPD K9s spend anywhere from five to eight years on the job.\u00a0 Handlers develop a life-long bond with their K9 partner.\u00a0 The program will ensure that the handler can provide extensive veterinary care and not have to worry about the cost.<\/p>\n

While the program is limited to $1,000, it will help with some of the costs.\u00a0 \u201cLast year retired K9 Otto needed emergency veterinary services,\u201d stated Chief Shoemaker. \u201cThe total bill for that trip was just under $1,000.\u201d<\/p>\n

The program will be reviewed, over time, to potentially increase the funding for our retired K9 officers. \u201cThis is just a start as we begin this new program,\u201d said Mayor Judy Sheets. \u201cOur K9s have worked very hard to find illegal drugs and help track missing people or suspects.\u201d<\/p>\n

If you are interested in donating to this program, please reach out to sshoemaker284@frankfort-in.gov<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"