Cooling Vests donated to VPD K9 Unit

Ziggy

On Thursday, May 30, The Messiah Lutheran Church's Women's Mission League presented eight cooling vests to the Valdosta Police Department’s K-9 Unit. According to the women’s group, the vests were funded through yard sales, craft sales, and other events.

 In South Georgia, K9s can be prone to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The vests activate as a cooling mechanism when soaked with water. Once the vest is placed on the dog it begins to cool them down. The vests help evaporate body heat quicker than panting.

VPD has eight K9s currently, five trained in patrol techniques and narcotics detection, one dual purpose trained in patrol techniques and explosive detection, one explosive detection, and one comfort dog.

“These working dogs will go until you tell them no more. These vests will be a preventative measure, as heat stroke is very common in this South Georgia heat.” K9 Sergeant Alan Girsch with the Valdosta Police Department.

“I know first-hand how important these cooling vests are. These vests will help keep them alive,” said LWML President Norene Olsen.

For more information on the K9 unit, please contact the Valdosta Police Department at (229) 242-2606.

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