EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — As National K9 Veterans Day is celebrated, the dedication and bond between K9 handlers and their dogs are being highlighted.
This day honors the service of military and working dogs, with over a thousand pups working for the military and fifty thousand active police dogs, according to the Department of Justice.
Sergeant Raul Melendez, an El Paso Police Patrol K-9 Handler, shared the unique connection he has with his dog, Rick.
From the beginning from day one, as soon as you come into the car, he understands we’re going to work and we’re bonding right away,” he said. “From the morning we get on that truck to the very end, you know, we’re just bonding the whole time and just spending time together.
Deputy Rudy Aguilar from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office described the challenges and rewards of being a K9 handler.
Being a K9 is one of the toughest duties I’ve ever had as a police officer,” he said. “It’s a great honor. Helping my community in finding narcotics that also stem into other related activities.
The history of K9 service dates back to March 13, 1942, when the U.S. Army began training dogs for the War Dog Program, known as the K-9 Corps.
This marked the first official recognition of dogs as part of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Sergeant Jesus Melendez, also an El Paso Police Patrol K-9 Handler, emphasized the importance of recognizing these dogs. “The K-9s are very deserving of recognition. They go very unsung,” he said.
The Melendez brothers spoke about the strong bond formed with their K9 partners. “For the general public, for people to understand that, the tribulation is that you will go through. But once it does bind you with the dog, you become dad, you’re a team. And you have such a strong bond,” said Raul Melendez.
These dogs and their handlers undergo extensive training and often live together, forming a deep connection that enhances their effectiveness in the field.
RECOMMENDED: El Paso chef Mateo Herrera shares vision for new restaurant at tasting event
Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
