Donations cover dog’s purchase and training
VERMILION — Officer Zach Scholl and police dog Max have completed six weeks of training to become the city’s new K-9 team, with community donations covering the $15,800 cost, according to a Vermilion police Facebook post.
The pair graduated from Excel K-9’s training academy and passed state K-9 certification testing through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy, police said.
Max, a 3-year-old black German shepherd, was selected and imported from Slovakia by Excel K-9 trainers. He is trained in narcotics detection, searching for objects and tracking.
Max can alert to the odors of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin, according to the announcement.
The Vermilion Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 125 K-9 Fund paid the entire cost of purchasing Max and training the team. The fund is supported by donations from residents, businesses and organizations.
Brady’s K-9 Fund also donated a ballistic patrol vest for Max.
Police thanked donors for supporting both funds. Donations to the local K-9 fund are accepted year-round. Anyone interested in contributing can contact Scholl or Police Chief Scott Holmes.