The Frankfort Board of Works and Public Safety approved the Frankfort Police Department’s request to provide care to retired FPD K9s. The program allows for funding to the police officer who adopts the K9 upon retirement. Currently, FPD K9 handlers adopt the K9 with full responsibility of expenses related to the K9. Funding will allow for reimbursement of up to $1,000 to come from the FPD budget or the K9 donation account.
According to Chief Scott Shoemaker, “K9s work the same hours as our handlers and are sometimes the first to go into dangerous incidents. After years of extensive training and long work hours, they deserve our continued support.”
FPD K9s spend anywhere from five to eight years on the job. Handlers develop a life-long bond with their K9 partner. The program will ensure that the handler can provide extensive veterinary care and not have to worry about the cost.
While the program is limited to $1,000, it will help with some of the costs. “Last year retired K9 Otto needed emergency veterinary services,” stated Chief Shoemaker. “The total bill for that trip was just under $1,000.”
The program will be reviewed, over time, to potentially increase the funding for our retired K9 officers. “This is just a start as we begin this new program,” said Mayor Judy Sheets. “Our K9s have worked very hard to find illegal drugs and help track missing people or suspects.”
If you are interested in donating to this program, please reach out to sshoemaker284@frankfort-in.gov.