The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office is purchasing a Belgian Malinois to serve as a law enforcement canine in the Sheriff’s Patrol Division.
On Tuesday the Lassen County Board of Supervisors authorized Sheriff Dean Growdon to purchase the canine, named ‘Brinks’ with funds raised from community donations to support the canine program.
The Board also authorized the basic canine handler training for Deputy Brandon Vinson. Deputy Vinson is scheduled for the canine training beginning January 20th, 2014. After the 5-week course, Deputy Vinson and Brinks will be certified to begin patrolling together.
Monte Kielty, of Treats Natural Pet Marketplace, came to the Board of Supervisors meeting representing the non-profit Lassen County Canine Association. Kielty presented Sheriff Growdon and Deputy Vinson with a check for $7,310 that completely covers the purchase price for the canine. The Canine Association has already raised more than $11,000 in community donations to support the program.
Additionally, on behalf of Treats Dog Company, Kielty has pledged to donate all the food and supplies for the care of the canine for the life of the program.
Sheriff Growdon accepted the donation and expressed thanks to Kielty, the Canine Association, and all the community support and donations to get this program started.
After Deputy Vinson completes the basic canine handler course, he will return to the Board of Supervisors Chambers with Brinks and give a detailed overview of the canine program and the benefits it will bring to Lassen County.
The ultimate success of the canine program will depend on the continued support and donations from the community. Please contact the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office or Monte Kielty for more information on making donations to the Lassen County Canine Association.
