Detroit – Wayne County Sheriff’s Dog Squad Bulks Up With More Pups and Protective Vests
The K-9 unit of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department is celebrating a big win for its treasured working dogs. Recently, they welcomed two new pups to their team and ensured that their diligent K-9, Gunner, will have the protection he deserves with a custom-fitted ballistic vest.
The Unprotected Matters
One rain-drenched night, K-9 Gunner and his partner, Cpl. Rick Cadez, were on pursuit for two armed men who had fled from a shooting. Gunner, who was leading the search, didn’t have a bulletproof vest for protection. It was a worrisome reality for Cadez, especially knowing Gunner would likely be the first to confront potential gunfire.
A Step in the Right Direction
This led Cadez to apply for a custom-fitted ballistics vest for Gunner with the help of Brady’s K-9 Fund, a nonprofit that offers bulletproof vests for police and military dogs. By the end of March, Gunner’s application was approved, thanks to a generous donation from a local citizen who worked overtime at a plant.
Strengthening the K-9 Unit
On top of securing Gunner’s safety, the sheriff’s department also obtained a separate grant to buy two new dogs for explosive detection and patrol duties. This fantastic news brings the K-9 unit’s size up to six dogs.
Duty and Danger
In 2021 alone, five police dogs perished in the line of duty across the United States according to the Officer Down Memorial Page. Now, with his new vest, Gunner is far better protected from such tragic incidents. The vest is comfortable, lightweight, and designed to protect Gunner’s vital organs during his entire shift.
The Mutt Behind the Vest
The story behind Brady’s K-9 Fund is incredibly heartwarming. It all started with an 8-year-old boy named Brady Snakovsky, who noticed during a TV show that police dogs weren’t wearing vests. That simple observation led to a charity that has amassed a fund of $1.3 million and outfitted over 1,100 dogs with vests since 2018.
Adding More Canines to the Force
Choosing the right dogs to join the K-9 unit isn’t just about picking the cutest puppies. They have to demonstrate specific characteristics: work drive, courage, confidence, intelligence, and sociability. The new members, Ghost and Zuko, were chosen for their exceptional drive and confidence combined with their sociability.
Ultimate Protectors
The K-9 unit has already started making their mark, particularly Gunner. He was part of the security arrangement when Vice President Kamala Harris visited Detroit. Gunner assisted in explosive sweeps, ensuring the safety of everyone present. What’s even more comforting is knowing that from now on, Gunner will be safer with his new vest during each operation.
