A police dog has to possess the same balance of qualities found in an exceptional person, qualities like gentleness and courage, intelligence and predictability. A fearless dog that snaps at kids in the classroom just won't do, nor will a toddler-loving pooch that lollygags on the job. And though it should be, effective when commanded, a police dog should never be vicious.
The Fond du Lac Police K-9 Unit was established in May of 1995 after Officer Steve Klein approached Chief Dan Bord with the K-9 concept. Due to lack of available funding, Officer Klein needed to go out into the community to seek help. The Fond du Lac Community responded. In a short time several business and corporations donated over $14,000 to fund the first K-9.
New K-9 Seiko and partner Officer Klein proved their value to the department and community with a number of finds and apprehensions. Shortly thereafter, The City Council added $10,000 to the police budget to fund a second K-9. In May of 1996 K-9 Arkon along with handler Officer Steve Endries joined the unit. Then in November of 1997 the City Council continued to show their support of the K-9 program by funding 2 additional dogs bringing the units level to four dogs. Yalco and his partner Tina Braun joined the unit in May of 1998. K-9 Manto and handler Officer Bill Ledger completed the four team unit in September of 1998. A fifth K-9 was added when Officer Joel Gudex joined the department coming from Lomira PD and bringing his K-9 partner Ferro to the unit.
Seigo is a dual-purpose patrol & narcotics detection dog. Seigo is also trained and certified as reasonable force (find & bark) K-9. The K-9 unit has received all of their dogs from Steinegtal Kennels in Campbellsport.
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