Hawaii Police Department’s canines and handlers have some extra first aid resources thanks to a recent donation from the Hawaii Island K9 Association.
During a ceremony Feb. 25 in Kailua-Kona, the association presented the department with seven canine trauma first aid kits and seven nasal Narcan kits — one for each of the department’s seven canine units. The department has five narcotics canines and two live search canines.
The donation included training by a veterinarian on how to use the equipment, training aids, canine toys and other materials, with a combined total value of $2,000. The department received approval from the County Council to accept the donation prior to the ceremony.
Following the ceremony, veterinarian Dr. Kristina Henricks, owner of Good Karma Spay and Neuter, provided departmental canine handlers training on how to use the trauma kits and Narcan.
“We want to make sure the canines are protected,” says Tammy Passmore, founder and board chair of the Hawaii Island K9 Association. “We saw a need for the canines to have the specialty training and equipment so they can perform their job.”
“Hawaii Police Department appreciates the generous donation from the Hawaii Island K9 Association to keep our canines safe,” said Hawaii Police Department Chief Paul Ferreira.
The association is continuing to raise funds to help support the needs of law enforcement canine teams.
For more information about Hawaii Island K9 Association, visit https://hik9s.org/.