PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITY …. ONE PAW AT A TIME
“Each K9 is not just a police dog, they are a community investment and a trusted protector.”
MEET OUR K9 HEROES
Pomic
Details:
– Born: October 3, 2019 (Germany)
– Breed: German Shepherd
– Partner: Officer Hernandez
-Joined: September 2022
-Legacy: 11th K9 in department history
-Specialty: Hard Surface Tracking
K9 Pomic is known for his exceptionally high drive and focus. At five years old, he maintains a playful and energetic personality. His certification in hard surface tracking enhances his ability to locate individuals in challenging urban environments.
Maverick
Details:
– Born: March 21, 2022 (Germany)
– Breed: German Shepherd
-Partner: Officer Goudy
-Joined: June 2024
-Legacy: 12th K9 in department history
-Specialty: Dual-purpose Patrol & Narcotics
K9 Maverick began training in German sport and obedience at a young age. Today, he serves as a dual-purpose canine, assisting in patrol operations and narcotics detection with precision and reliability.
ABOUT THE K9 UNIT
The primary objective of the Atascadero Police Department K-9 Unit is to reduce hazard exposure to uniformed patrol officers as they carry out their public safety mission.
By deploying highly trained K9 teams in dangerous or unpredictable situations, the department improves safety for both officers and the community.
When fully staffed, the unit includes:
- Oversight by a supervising sergeant
- Two officer handlers
- Two patrol canines specifically trained in
- Suspect apprehension
- Building searches
- Handler protection
- Article searches
- Area searches
- Advanced obedience
Each K9 team completes an intensive 200+ hour patrol training program prior to certification.
To maintain readiness, every team:
- Completes annual recertification
- Trains a minimum of 20 hours per month. Teams participate in intensive, day-long training sessions at the Inglis Police Dog Training Academy at least twice each month, with additional specialized training throughout the year.