MERIDIAN, Idaho — After three months of extensive training, three K-9’s are graduating and joining the Meridian Police Department’s K-9 Unit.
Grizz, KB, and Tuso are certified dual-purpose K-9’s certified in drug detection and criminal apprehension. A little background on the K-9’s:
K-9 Grizz is a one-and-a-half (1.5) year old Shepherd. Grizz is originally from Europe and has been eager to work since the day he started his training. Grizz received his name from his ‘bear-like ‘features.
K-9 KB is a four (4) year old Belgian Malinois. Also from Europe, KB received titles in the canine sporting arena prior to moving to Meridian. KB is named after the late Meridian Councilmember Keith Bird.
K-9 Tuso is a two (2) year old Belgian Malinois. The purchase and training of K9 Tuso were made possible by a monetary donation from the Tuso Family. Meridian resident John Tuso contacted the department earlier this year and wanted to make the donation in memory of his late wife, Gail a long time animal, and dog lover.
The Meridian Police Department will also be celebrating the retirement of two Meridian K9’s, Randy and Dory.
K-9 Randy is a Belgian Malinois. He has retired from the department after four years of service. Randy was born in January 2014 in the Netherlands and trained in narcotic detection and patrol applications. He served Meridian during traffic stops, tracking, and apprehension. K9 Randy and his handler, Meridian Officer Lee, will be recognized for their retirement from the Meridian K9 Unit.
From rescued to retired, the other K-9 ready to enjoy her golden years is the “golden girl” herself, K-9 Dory. After eight years of service, Dory has retired from the Meridian Police Department. This yellow Labrador was a rescue from the Blaine County Human Society and worked hard as a Meridian narcotics detection K9. She liked attending community events and visiting schools across Meridian. K9 Dory will be spending her retirement with her handler, playing fetch.
