Pasco Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit is one of the largest and most diversely skilled K-9 units in Florida. It’s comprised of multiple handler and K-9 teams, all serving a specific purpose. These teams have a variety of skills, including tracking missing people, finding drugs, explosives or accelerants, locating human remains and providing comfort for those in crisis. K-9s are vital to PSO, as they can perform tasks that humans cannot or that would take significant manpower and time to achieve the same result.

Each K-9 is selected for their handler based on drive, personality and home life compatibility, as all of PSO’s K-9s live at the handler’s home as part of their family. Most K-9s and their handlers undergo over 400 hours of training before becoming a certified team. They continue to train weekly to ensure they remain at the top of their skillset. All of PSO’s K-9s serve the citizens of Pasco with eagerness and enthusiasm, and only ask for a toy and praise as their rewards.

K-9s require significant funds for care, equipment and training. The money to purchase, train and equip all of PSO’s K-9s comes from donations from businesses, community groups and citizens. None of the money for PSO’s K-9s comes from taxpayer dollars.

If you’re interested in donating the funds to purchase, train and equip a K-9 for Pasco Sheriff’s Office, please email charities@pascosheriff.org for more information and to begin the process.

Even after a K-9 retires, they still require vet care and maintenance. PSO’s K-9s remain with their handlers after retirement, and donations help fund this care for the rest of a K-9’s life.

You can make a difference in the life of K9, who selflessly served the citizens of Pasco County, by donating here today!