BRODHEAD - The Brodhead Police Department is raising funds to support the department's first police dog for a new K9 program.
The program was approved by the Brodhead City Council at its October meeting and fundraising began shortly before Thanksgiving.
The program will require $85,000 to be raised in 2017. The money will cover the cost of buying the animal itself, training and certification, equipment and a patrol car outfitted for a canine patrol.
In addition, yearly re-certification fees, along with the cost of care for the dog, will be $5,000 per year.
"I have a great appreciation for a canine's team ability to detect drugs, locate missing and endangered persons, as well as cutting down the human resources and time spent doing so," Brodhead Police Chief Chris Hughes said.
Officer Brian Bennett, who will be the assigned K9 handler if funding is successful, said fundraising efforts for the next year will include a bowling tournament, T-shirt and plush toy sales, and business partnerships. Bennett said $1,200 has been raised since donations began.
Donations can be made by sending money or checks to the Brodhead Police Department at 1004 West Exchange St., Brodhead, WI, 53520 or by taking them to the Sugar River Bank. Donations should indicate they are for the K9 Fund.
The program was approved by the Brodhead City Council at its October meeting and fundraising began shortly before Thanksgiving.
The program will require $85,000 to be raised in 2017. The money will cover the cost of buying the animal itself, training and certification, equipment and a patrol car outfitted for a canine patrol.
In addition, yearly re-certification fees, along with the cost of care for the dog, will be $5,000 per year.
"I have a great appreciation for a canine's team ability to detect drugs, locate missing and endangered persons, as well as cutting down the human resources and time spent doing so," Brodhead Police Chief Chris Hughes said.
Officer Brian Bennett, who will be the assigned K9 handler if funding is successful, said fundraising efforts for the next year will include a bowling tournament, T-shirt and plush toy sales, and business partnerships. Bennett said $1,200 has been raised since donations began.
Donations can be made by sending money or checks to the Brodhead Police Department at 1004 West Exchange St., Brodhead, WI, 53520 or by taking them to the Sugar River Bank. Donations should indicate they are for the K9 Fund.