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The Curious Bag
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K9 police officers are specially trained law officers who work with trained dogs. Together, officers and K9s preform a wide variety of law enforcement duties.
Function
From detecting illegal drugs in prisons to searching through baggage in airports, K9 officers and their dogs work to ensure safety of citizens. K9 officers typically work for police departments and federal agencies.
Considerations
K9 officers are placed in dangerous situations on a daily basis, so officers must be able to handle stress and emergencies well to be able to appropriately control their safety and the safety of their K9 companion.
Requirements
Law experience is helpful when applying to a K9 officer job, as a police officer or other criminal justice related job. Before working as a K9 officer, weeks of K9 training and certification in obedience, procedures and narcotic identification is required.
Expert Insight
K9s and K9 officers are an essential part of law enforcement. A lot of officers actually allow their K9 companions to live with them in their home because the bond between the dog and the officer is so strong.
Salary
The average salary of a K9 officer is $58,000 a year, according to Simplyhired.com. Actual salary will vary by job experience, job location and education.
Source:
Job Monkey: Becoming a Canine Officer
Job Monkey: Interview - K9 Officer Employment
Port Arthur Police Department: K-9 Detail
More Information:
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