Many police departments in the United States have special K-9 units. They assist officers with everything, from finding missing people to looking for evidence at crime scenes. These dogs, who are highly trained, work tirelessly with their handlers to keep them safe. But what happens after they are done?
Many retired police dogs were put down until 2000. However, this shocking practice was ended when Bill Clinton signed Robby's Law. This law still applies today. Their handlers can adopt dogs who are retired from military or law enforcement service. They can also be adapted to the general public if they are not available.
What to Know About Retired Police Dogs
Most police dogs are retired due to old age. They are smart and hardworking dogs. At 7 to 8 years old, or sometimes as late as 10 to 11, they are ready to put down their K-9 badges to relax and spend the rest of their lives in peace.
Police dogs are highly trained and can be very calm. However, anxiety and depression can result from stress. Some dogs who are retired from the police force might exhibit aggression, separation anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. This means that they might need to be trained in retirement or re-socialized.
It doesn't mean that adopting a retired police dog is not worthwhile. A retired police K-9 can provide an amazing opportunity for a working dog to become a normal dog. This type of rescue is available to anyone interested.
How to Apply for a Retired Police Dog
Police dogs can form strong bonds with their handlers while on duty. When the dogs are retired, their handlers will be the first to adopt them. Most dogs with police partners live happily as family pets.
Most often, civilians can adopt retired police dogs only if the dog's handler cannot take care of them or dies. Sometimes dogs who have failed to complete their police dog training or never served in active service are adopted. In both cases, the public and other law enforcement officers will first adopt the dog.
There is no specific organization that adopts retired police dogs. The National Police Dog Foundation and the Retired Police Canine Foundation help handlers provide care and training for their retired dogs.
Mission K9, however, is an organization that provides assistance to former working dogs and even arranges civilian adoptions. You can learn more about their adoption process and the steps involved in adopting a retired cop dog.
The best way to adopt a retired police officer dog is to do your research by calling local police stations or K-9 officer training facilities. Suppose a training or police department has a dog that is available for adoption or expects to soon. In that case, the organization will provide details about the process and any requirements for adopters. Please note that it can take time for dogs to become available and may take years.
Why You Should Consider Adopting a Former Police Dog
Adopting a "failed" or retired police dog is not an easy process. Neither is it guaranteed that the dog will be available for adoption or that you will be approved. Adopting a dog who has served its country is a great way to make a difference and give a happy ending for dogs who have done so much to help others.
A police dog's life is not always easy. Police K-9s are often in high-stress situations and can be exposed to life-threatening dangers just like their handlers. You can adopt a retired police dog to give your pet the chance to be loved and cared for in its final years.
It's a great way to make an impact on a pet's life. You can also adopt a retired police dog from the TSA Dog Adoption Program or go to your local shelter. Millions of cats and dogs are in desperate need of homes. Many would love to spend their lives with you.
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