The newest member of the Sweden Township Police Department has conducted searches for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She is also certified in finding marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine and cocaine.
And she has a good sense of smell and a good temperament –– the right qualities to be department’s newest K-9 after the death of a K-9 dog over the summer.
On Sunday, township Police Chief Bryan Phelps traveled to Clarion to meet Rich Yonlisky of Bullocks K9 and to take in Jay. The dog is already certified in drug detection as well as tracking and article searches.
“Excitement doesn’t really cut it,” Phelps said. “I’m glad to have a dog back in our community.”
Now the next two weeks she will bond with Phelps’ family, and Jay will be introduced to the community, too.
Later this month, Phelps will be getting certified. He has been a K-9 handler for 17 years, and the dog lives with him and his family.
Jay, a Belgian Malinois, will be 4 years old later this month. She was brought in from Toronto, and she is originally from Mexico, he said.
“She’s a beautiful dog,” Phelps said. “She’s family and child oriented. She’s dog friendly.”
On the police department’s Facebook page, Troy A. Rouse Sr. said Jay will be a good addition to the community and the surrounding area.
“She is gorgeous! Wouldn’t want to be on the other end of her mouth though,” said Ashley Marie Galusha.
The department is looking to raise $10,000 to pay for the K-9, and thus far, more than $6,500 has been brought in, Phelps said. Each day donations continue to pour in, he said, and have come in from as far away as Duke Center, Rixford and Wellsboro.
The Potter County Animal Assistance Project also gave a $5,000 grant to the department.
Donations can be sent to the Sweden Township Police K-9 Fund, 129 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport Pa 16915.
In the past, the department’s K-9 has been used in other municipalities, including Bradford, Lock Haven and St. Marys.
Any school or civic group that wants to meet Jay or schedule a seminar can contact Phelps at (814) 274-0654.
