Title
Donation of Facility Canines for the Police Communications Bureau (Ordinance S-46545)
Description
Request authorization for the City Manager, or his designee, to accept a donation of two trained facility canines from The Fetch Foundation valued at $7,900 each for the Police Communications Bureau.
Report
Summary
The Fetch Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that works closely with animal rescue organizations and shelters to identify dogs that have the potential to be trained to become search and service dogs or therapy dogs. The Foundation's Homeless to Heroes program takes homeless shelter dogs and repurposes them to work in situations appropriate to their abilities.
In support of the Police Department's ongoing commitment to employee wellness, the department partnered with the Fetch Foundation to provide two trained facility canines to be placed at the Police Department's Communication Bureau with handlers, who are bureau employees. This bureau employs 280 civilian staff who are responsible for answering emergency and non-emergency calls from the public and dispatching priority calls requiring a police response. The facility canines are expected to help alleviate some of the pressures and emotional stresses this job can have on these employees. One canine has been identified as an ideal candidate for this program and is currently undergoing training. As soon as a suitable second canine candidate is identified, it too will also begin training. The use of facility canines was also a wellness improvement recommendation identified by the City's 911/Civilian Response Workgroup.
Financial Impact
The donation includes the cost of the canine and their training. Minimal annual maintenance costs will be required for food, veterinary visits and miscellaneous supplies. Funds for these expenses are available in the Police Department's budget.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Milton Dohoney, Jr. and the Police Department.