Page 44 - WCSO 2017 Annual Report

TRAINING FOR WCSO K9 UNIT

2 SERGEANTS
SUCCESS PATROL SGT. DETECTION SGT.

SETTING THE STANDARD

1 2 2
Message from K9 Sgt. O’Reilly Narcotics Patrol Dual Trained
Detection Tracking Narcotics/Tracking
WCSO began using K9s to enhance and support Team Teams Teams
patrol functions in 1993. A program that began by
using working type dogs donated by community
members has evolved over the past two decades CALLS FOR SERVICE
to utilize dogs specifically bred and trained to 421 PATROL
support modern policing practices. Regardless 245 DETECTION
of the changing dogs or handlers, one focus
has remained true to the WCSO K9 Unit, a solid
training plan. TRAINING HOURS
995 PATROL
Our K9 Unit is proud to be an industry leader in
training practices, a commitment reflected not The understanding of the importance 715 DETECTION
only by additional monthly training hours above of high caliber training doesn’t stop
standard but also a highly introspective approach with our own team. A commitment
to training. Constant evaluation of training tactics to proper training is exemplified by Cpl. Akin’s
ensures the teams are as prepared as possible appointment as a patrol dog trainer certified LIFETIME CAPTURES
for the work expected of them. A diverse unit through the Oregon Police Canine Association,
comprised of dogs and handlers with different as well as Sgt. DiPietro’s appointment as a
specialties helps enhance and support any patrol probationary detection dog trainer through CPL. AKIN | K9 STARK
function they may encounter on a shift. the Oregon Police Canine Association. These $97,332 12,596.26 grams 160

The WCSO K9 Unit’s intentional training plan additional certifications help enhance the team’s illegal drugs
focuses on preparing for success. Positive in-house trainings, as well as elevate the training recovered
reinforcement and confidence building activities of K9 teams across the state. seized DEP. ZAUGG | K9 CHASE
keep the dog’s natural motivation to work high. Education for our K9 Unit is not limited to 44
Every training session, whether a track, area, specific training hours or sessions. Earning a
building, vehicle or article search ends in success place within the K9 Unit also carries the crucial
– reaffirming to the working dog their job is commitment to care for their K9 partner 24 hours
important and they will be effective in completing a day. Each time a handler works with their dog, 47 SGT. O’REILLY | K9 RADAR
whatever their handler asks of them. A rewards whether on the road or during time at home, is 32
based training program, which rewards dogs for an opportunity to train and reinforce an essential people captured
proper behavior, rather than punishment based bond. Every handler is responsible for training
training, which punishes dogs for improper their partner. Working directly together creates a articles recovered 1 SGT. DIPIETRO | K9 TUX
behavior, creates dogs more willing to work for true connection between the two and reaffirms
their handlers, as well as dogs that are more the dog’s confidence in the work they do. 21 dog bite 29
sociable when they aren’t working.

41 | WCSO Patrol Division WCSO 2017 Annual Report | 42