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For their early June meeting, Bainbridge Lions Club members enjoyed a special treat: Bainbridge Public Safety K9 Dolph, together with the people who work with him, provided a “show and tell” performance that entertained and enlightened the viewers.  Dolph is a very energetic and highly trained Belgian shepherd, almost two years old.  He resides and primarily works with K9 Officer Chris Moore, who explained some things about their work together. Sgt. Jessica Mathews and PSO Kendall Glover assisted in the demonstration.

In a wide variety of situations, Dolph is a critical member of the team.  He can assist in search and tracking of missing persons, such as mentally impaired or elderly dementia patients, or children.  In the apprehension of fleeing suspects or escaped inmates, he is trained to bite and hold on command.  From his performance in the demonstration, he would likely prevail over any human including the most vigorous violent offenders.  He also may assist in a situation that requires intervention by a SWAT team.

Dolph often stays out of sight (calmly snoozing perhaps) in a specially equipped SUV.  In a situation where Officer Moore comes upon trouble and needs assistance from the K9, he can touch a switch built into the special vest he wears.  This action will send a signal to pop open the door and release Dolph to help deal with the difficulty.  Special equipment in the SUV also includes a heat alarm and pager, and Dolph wears a special collar equipped to receive electronic signals.  

The greatest value provided by Dolph to the general community may be in helping to keep narcotics off the street.  His training equips him to detect meth, marijuana, heroin, cocaine and ecstasy.  He works in building searches and outdoors as well. His response reactions may include a change in breathing or posture, but his final trained alert indication is to sit.

Bainbridge Public Safety (BPS) is seeking support from the community to obtain a protective Kevlar vest for Dolph. The vest will protect this vital law enforcement team member from stabbing, shrapnel, impalement, and handgun bullets; it is designed to not raise the body temperature of the wearer.  BPS is collaborating with the nonprofit 30 X 30 Fundraising to raise $3,500 needed to purchase the vest and leash.  Bainbridge Lions were pleased to be able to contribute toward the vest, and community members are invited to join in and contribute to the project.  You can find the website for this project at https://bit.lyDonateToK9Dolph.  There is no fee involved with these donations, which are 501c3 qualified.  For more information, you may contact Bainbridge Public Safety Chief Redell Walton or Officer Chris Moore by phone at 229-248-2038.