Vote — approved

Item Text

63. TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF RETIRING K-9 – MILLIE Approve the transfer of ownership of retiring K-9, Millie, #K132, to Deputy Bowes, #2055. Millie is a nine-year-old single purpose bloodhound, certified in man trailing. Millie was assigned to Deputy Bowes in 2018 and they have been working together since. Millie has assisted with over a thousand search and rescue operations for a multitude of agencies valley wide throughout her career. She has also conducted a multitude of criminal trails which led to the apprehension of numerous suspects. Bloodhound Millie has played a vital role in the MCSO Lake Patrol Division and the search and rescue community. In February of 2024, K9 Millie was seen by a Veterinarian and was diagnosed with advanced arthritis in her spine and back legs. The Veterinarian advised arthritis would continue to advance making Millie incapable of performing her job tasks. As of July 2024 a few short months from original diagnosis, full exam, bloodwork and x-rays were completed, Millie’s condition has advanced and symptoms will only continue to worsen if she continues to work. At the advice of the Veterinarian due to Millie’s rapidly advancing condition Millie has since been retired. MCSO is requesting ownership be transferred to Deputy Bowes. Deputy Bowes has created a strong bond with Millie over the years as her handler/partner and will accept full care and financial responsibility for Millie upon adoption and will be asked to sign the Canine Release and Indemnification. THIS ITEM REQUIRES A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THE BOARD. (C-50-25-031-X-00)