Helping Build and Support Edina’s K-9 Teams

Written By Shelly Loberg

Police K-9 teams require a significant investment in training, equipment and ongoing care. Through community donations, the Edina First Responders Fund has helped make that investment possible for the Edina Police Department.

Fully funded by the Edina First Responders Fund, Edina’s police canine teams consist of Officer Sean Young and Canine Blitz, and Officer Jason Behr and Canine Blade. Both German Shepherds were imported from Europe.

The Fund supports specialized training for both the dogs and their handlers. The basic handler course lasts 12 weeks, followed by a three-week narcotics-detection course. The teams also train regularly with other canine units in the area, and their training meets the standards established by the United States Police Canine Association.

Patrol Canine Training

  • Agility

  • Apprehension

  • Article and evidence searches

  • Building searches for hidden suspects

  • Handler protection

  • Narcotics detection

  • Obedience

  • Tracking fleeing suspects or missing people

Narcotics-Detection Training

  • Cocaine

  • Crack cocaine

  • Heroin

  • Marijuana

  • Methamphetamines

These teams are an important resource for the department and the community, helping officers respond more safely and effectively in a wide range of situations, from locating missing people to finding evidence or assisting with high-risk calls.

It is a clear example of how the Fund turns community generosity into real public-safety impact.

To arrange a demonstration, contact Edina Police Sgt. Mark Melander at 952-833-9539.

Shelly Loberg
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