Do you think is fair for K-9 police dogs who have served, are turned into animal shelters and some euthanized

Question

I have heard many stories of wonderful K-9 police and correction officer dogs who have served their community ,when too old, are turned into shelters and some euthanized. However, if someone hurts a K-9 in a crime they are charged as injuring an officer, Does this make sense?

I live in Florida , and a Correctional facility here (a few months ago ) turned in a bloodhound that worked in the jails to a shelter, Furthermore, I just received an email for police auctions I am registered for, and there is a Staffordshire Terrier named Tanner, that is in a shelter for adoption, a former police dog, for drugs missing persons, etc. I am not saying this happens ALL the time, but it does happen. I am not making this stuff up people. I just think it needs to be prevented. And more should be done to see that it is prevented and not even one K-9 should be subjected to such.

Answer 1

If it is happening, then NO it is not fair.

Most k-9's live out the remainder of their years with their handlers or with someone approved of by the agency or handler (ie the auction you mention). I have not personally heard of any going to a shelter, but that does not mean it hasn't happened. I also have never heard of one being euthanized simply because they were retired. I have heard of several euthanized because they were ill and it was more humane than allowing them to suffer.

If it is going on in a particular location where k-9s are being abandoned by those they served, let us know. There are SEVERAL agencies out there who would go out of their way to make sure it doesn't.

Answer 2

While I guess it could happen sometimes, in general normally the officer who handles the dog will just keep him, or they will find a place on a farm or so on for them.

Some states even have special laws to protect the life of police dogs, almost to the level of killing a police officer.

Now also not always are all the facts know, if some animals are too sick, too ill and the such putting them down is often considered the better thing to do.

Answer 3

I find it extremely unlikely that what you are saying is true. I work with German Shepherds and work with German Shepherd Rescue organizations. I also have family and friends in law enforcement.

Police K9 dogs and their handlers don't just have a 9-5 relationship. The handler (the police officer) in most cases also takes the dog home with him and is part of the officer's family. When they are not on duty, they spend time together. When its time for the dog to retire, the dog lives at home with the officer. I have never ever ever heard of any police K9 dogs being euthanized just because they have retired.

Oh, and the amount of money that goes into training a police K9 dog, is usually on the order of $5K-$10K. Believe me, those dogs don't just get euthanized or dumped in a shelter.

If you have evidence otherwise, please provide links to your alleged sources.

Answer 4

not at all... just like greyhound dogs... that is the way it goes unfortunatly.. I had a shepard and I also see how they treat thiers... not the same. K-9 Dogs are cool just the same. It is just like a judge what makes him so .... special to determine someones life... the law... the same laws that protect fools from going to jail because they are 5'1... and may be a target behind bars... good that is where they belong anyhow... this is a world of .... no that doesn't make one bit of sense.

Answer 5

I know for a fact that in Phila. retired police dogs stay with their handler if possible. They are given food for life and free veternary care for life. If for some reason the handler can't keep him, they are given to someone that can. NO police dogs are put in shelters or put to sleep here.

Answer 6

The handler should find a good home for them. It isn't fair to the dogs.