Saturday, the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department will host its first K9 unit fundraiser.
Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Shane Tucker said the unit is in need of new, upgraded or repaired equipment, including leashes, kennels and parts for the Hot-N-Pop system.
The electronic Hot-N-Pop system is a staple piece of equipment for each K9 unit, Tucker said.
“If an officer is on call and the car runs hot, an alarm sounds to the handler to signal that the car is hot,” Tucker said. “The handler also wears a button on his belt if he needs assistance from his canine.”
According to previous Item coverage, a Hancock County Sheriff’s Department officer was possibly saved by his K9 after being attacked and beaten. The deputy hit the release button on his belt, which allowed his canine to exit the vehicle.
Tucker said these animals play a vital role in law enforcement. They are trained in narcotics detection and also tracking missing or wanted persons.
“If we have a missing child, Alzheimer’s patient or an escapee and get them out there in a reasonable amount of time, they can track the scent,’ Tucker said. “They also provide handler protection. It’s like having two deputies in the car. There’s a certain comfort knowing help is there if and when it is needed. The K9s will be there without question.”
During Saturday’s event, there will be K9 demonstrations including a narcotics locator and handler protector demonstration. Deputies from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department K9 unit will demonstrate an agility course, Tucker said.
The Pearl River County SPCA will be in attendance and distributing spay and neuter coupons, Tucker said. The department is also encouraging people to bring their dogs, however, they must be socialized and on a leash, Tucker said. There will be a dog competition with awards for best looking dog, most obedient dog, most talented dog and best in show, Tucker said.
According to an event flyer, proof of vaccination is required.
The cost per entry is $5, Tucker said.
The fire department will also host demonstrations and the Boy Scouts will be selling food and drink to raise funds for their group, Tucker said. Activities also include fun jumpers and games for children. The Sheriff’s Department’s Special Response Team will also host a tactical equipment demonstration.
“People love dogs, especially the younger children,” Tucker said. “When we take the dogs to elementary schools, the kids love to watch the dogs and that gets their attention. During the demonstration we also give them safety tips.”
The fundraiser will be held at Pearl River Central High School, located at 7407 Hwy. 11, Carriere, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The cost per person is $3 and proceeds will benefit the department’s K9 unit.
“We hope to see a lot of folks turn out,” Tucker said.