The Ross Township Police K-9 Unit began in August 1995 with funding provided by a grant from the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office Drug Forfeiture Fund and donations from Pet Supplies "Plus" and a few citizens. Two German Shepherds, a breed with intelligence, strength and loyalty, were selected and imported, Enno from the Czech Republic and Sari from Slovakia, to train as police service dogs. Each dog underwent extensive training with its handler, Officer James Fitch was teamed with K-9 Sari. The training was conducted by a Master Trainer with the North American Police Work Dog Association. The team was dual certified in Patrol work and Narcotics Detection. A strong bond developed between handler and dog. Dr. James Beebe, owner of Northview Animal Hospital, provided all medical care for the dogs.
The K-9 Unit was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The unit operated throughout the township and assisted many other agencies.
The police service dog team was able to:
The police dog team was available to assist police departments in other jurisdictions when needed.
K-9 Sari retired in June 2003 after working for 7 years and 10 months and enjoyed the final months of his life at home with his handler. He died on July 26, 2004 from Degenerative Myelopathy which is common in Shepherds and which has no cure. His spinal cord degenerated from the tail forward.
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