New state bill protects K-9s in the line of duty

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Whether responding to fires, finding explosives, or sniffing out narcotics, law enforcement K-9s are critical to fighting crime.

“Their hearing, their eyesight, everything, they can see better in the dark so they are quite an advantage for when doing nighttime operations,” Bay County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit Director Corporal Jeff Duggins said

Day or night, these K-9s put their lives on the line.

“The K-9 officers have always been an important part of our team and an important part of our community,” Bay County EMS Interim Chief Danny Page said.

And just like every crime-fighter, these dogs need protection.

As of June 18th, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill in support of police K-9s. It allows dogs injured in the line of duty to be rushed by ambulance to the closest animal hospital.

“In some cases, there have been restrictions that they had to go by because they didn’t want to lose their jobs, but it is the right thing to do. And by the governor making it the right thing to do, and making it a law and making it legal, now we don’t have to worry about it,” Duggins said.

The bill also allows emergency crews to provide medical care to the dogs, while they are being transported.

“So getting that dog its first IV in and on the way in a matter of seconds or minutes will save its life so that is a big advantage to having the ability now,” Duggins said.

More than just man’s best friend, they’re partners in protection.

“It eases our mind, if we are hurt and we can’t respond and help them, who is, so it is good to know that somebody else with training could step up and help us,” Duggins said.

With a law that aims to protect all of our protectors, even those with four legs.

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