Commission approves memorandum allowing ambulances to transport injured police K9s

The commission approved a memorandum of agreement to permit ambulances to transport injured law‑enforcement canines to veterinary care, following discussion on training, equipment and mutual‑aid considerations.

Chief Jody and police representatives described prior K9 medical training by multiple staff and noted recent advanced K9 first‑aid training attended with Officer Fox. The MOA allows an ambulance to carry a K9 handler and the canine to an approved veterinary facility—identified in the discussion as the closest ‘K9 ER’—when needed. The agreement was reviewed by the city attorney and returned with only minor signature‑line edits.

Commissioners asked whether specialized equipment would be required. Staff said they plan to assemble two canine care kits for ambulances, reusing some expired human supplies that are not authorized for people but are acceptable for animals (for example certain intraosseous needles). Deputy Chief Barnes and firefighter Jenna Conrad were cited as working on the kits. The chief said paramedic personnel trained in K9 care would attend transports when available.

The commission also discussed interagency participation; staff suggested outreach to neighboring counties and the local K9 training consortium so partner agencies could sign on to the MOA and benefit from shared protocols and reciprocal transport arrangements. Commissioners approved the MOA by roll call and directed staff to finalize the logistical details and equipment lists.