LAKEPORT >> Since 1995, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has purchased twelve service dogs to help detect and fight crime. Three of these dogs are still in service and working on the street side by side with their handlers.
All service dogs were trained in either handler protection, narcotics detection, or both. All LCSO canines are accustomed to working in excess of 40 hours per week and nearly 200 hours every month.
Once a determination is made to retire a canine from service, due to its age or for medical reasons, it is sold to the handler that has worked with and cared for it over the many years that they have been partnered together. The responsibility of caring for it once it is retired solely falls on the handler; this includes food and all medical/veterinarian visits.
On July 19, from noon to 3 p.m., there will be a benefit luncheon to help raise funds that will be used towards the medical care of retired LCSO canines. Lunch will be served in front of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, located at 1220 Martin Street, Lakeport. Lunch will include a hot dog, chips and a drink for $5.
If you wish to make a donation to the Retired Medical Canine Fund, please send it to P.O. Box 489, Lakeport, CA 95453 or deliver it to Gloria at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, 1220 Martin Street, Lakeport.
