The K-9 Unit includes Sgt. David Wyrick with Abram and Officer Bill Masters with Diesel. Both dogs are German shepherds imported from Europe.

These are not just animals to the officers who handle them, but work partners and companions. The dogs must know when to be aggressive on the job and when to be docile. They are taught to detect illegal narcotics such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin. They are trained to protect their handler; to track and help apprehend suspects fleeing from police or harming others; and to search for missing people. Their search training takes place in open spaces and inside buildings.

Working as a law enforcement K-9 requires state certification and a minimum of 400 hours of specialized training with refresher training on a continuous basis.

Venice police canines assist city police officers and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Department with positive results.