Waukesha Co. K-9 "Gordy" to retire at age nine; deputies hope you can help raise money for replacement
WAUKESHA COUNTY -- His job is to keep drugs and offenders off the streets in Waukesha County, but in a matter of months, K-9 Officer Gordy will be retiring. Deputies need your help raising money for a replacement.
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Cam
Eager to sniff out drugs, K-9 "Cam" is on a mission when he's at work.
"He is a passive dog, so he will sit, but you`ll be able to see by his change in behavior he is on to something," said Deputy Ryan Wollenhaupt.
From locating narcotics to chasing a suspect, Cam can do it all. Cam is the newest member of the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department's K-9 Unit -- which is made up of four dogs and their handlers.
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Cam
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Gordy
But soon, K-9 Gordy will retire.
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Gordy
"The typical working K-9 usually functions for approximately nine or 10 years," said Lt. Michael Goldmann.
Gordy is nine -- and dogs age much faster than humans.
"If I want him to go jump a fence, you have to ask a 90-year-old to jump a fence. You don`t want them to ever get hurt," said Deputy Brad Stenulson.
The K-9 officers are on patrol every day or they work with SWAT teams. Replacing Gordy would cost about $17,000. But what makes it tough is the unit is largely funded by donations.
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Gordy
Donations would not just go towards a new K-9 officer. The money will also be used for things like veterinary care or equipment -- like a leash or bulletproof vests.
"We're constantly called out. I've been to Washington County, Walworth County, help out the FBI, the DEA. It's not just Waukesha County. It's every region," Wollenhaupt said.
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Gordy
Waukesha County Sheriff's K-9 Gordy
The below upcoming events will be held to raise money for the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department's K-9 Unit:
Donations can be made to the Waukesha County Sheriff's Association year-round.