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What breed of dogs does the Sheriff's Office own?
›› We have three Belgian Malinois and one Dutch Shepherd.
Do the dogs live with their handlers?
›› Yes. Each dog is assigned to only one handler who is responsible for the care of the dog.
Can the K-9 unit do a demo for my school, scouts or public group?
›› Yes. Please contact Sgt. Susan Poulsen at (801) 451-4100 at least two weeks prior to the date you would like the K-9 Unit demonstration.
Are the dogs’ safe when left in their patrol cars while the handler isn’t there?
›› Absolutely! The canine vehicles are equipped with the most up-to-date canine safety devices on the market. Heat sensors in the car will activate the car’s horn, roll down the back windows and turn on a fan in the car if the dog’s area gets too warm. Remote control door opening ensures the dog can get out of the car to assist the handler at the touch of a button or in any other emergency situation.
How is a dog able to smell so well?
›› A number of things contribute to the dog's keen sense of smell. Their long snouts have a large turbinate bone structure that holds millions of scent receptor cells, plus the olfactory lobe of their brain is much larger than that of a human being.
Is hurting a K-9 the same as hurting a deputy?
›› Injuring or killing a K-9 is a 3rd Degree Felony punishable by imprisonment of up to five years in prison.
Can I touch/pet the dogs?
›› Like any service dog, you must ask the handler if you can touch the K-9. Police dogs are trained to protect themselves and their handlers. It's important that the handler introduce you to his or her dog properly.
