Susquehanna Township, PA – Capitol Area Animal Medical Center announced today that it will donate lifetime veterinary care to the dogs who will become part of Susquehanna Township’s reestablished Police K-9 Unit. The township is currently working to raise $50,000 to acquire two nationally certified, professionally trained dogs.

“All of us at Capitol Area Animal Medical Center are committed to our community and the health of the animals that serve the citizens who live here,” said Dr. Deborah Keim, who is Capitol Area Animal Medical Center’s Chief of Staff. “We are pleased to partner with the township to ensure these new K-9 officers are happy and healthy members of the police department and community. I also want to thank the police for a very noble profession near and dear to my heart.”

The township expects the first of the two K-9 officers to start its duties in the near future.

“We are so grateful for the generosity and support of Dr. Keim and her team at Capitol Area Animal Medical Center,” said Susquehanna Township Director of Public Safety Robert Martin. “Susquehanna Township is a community that supports one another and with everyone’s help we look forward to better serving our community with these K-9 officers at our side.”

Contributions are still needed to fully reestablish the K-9 unit. A GoFundMe page is available to help the community easily contribute to the program and a Facebook page provides regular updates on the program’s progress. The funds will support the acquisition of two K-9s and support nationally certified, best-practice training and equipment for both the dogs and their human partners. K-9 officers are an important part of a police department’s search and rescue capabilities, tracking missing persons, illegal drug and explosive detection, and detaining individuals fleeing from crimes in progress. They also serve as outreach liaisons, strengthening ties between the police department and the community it serves.

To date, over $30,000 has been raised. In addition to Capitol Area Animal Medical Center’s commitment, local pet supplier Abrams & Weakly will provide for the dogs’ nutritional needs.

All contributions made to the Susquehanna Township K-9 Fund are tax-deductible. Contributions can be made through the GoFundMe page or by check made payable to Susquehanna Township K-9 Fund mailed to The Susquehanna Township Police Department, 1900 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Chief Martin is authorized to fundraise on behalf of the fund as an unpaid volunteer.

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Editor’s Note: Picture is of Dr. Deborah Keim and her dog, Ruger.

Contact: Rob Martin, Director of Public Safety, (717) 909-9282 or rmartin@susquehannatwp.com