Several questions were submitted to City Beat recently regarding a Facebook post by Bartlesville Police K9, a page operated by Bartlesville Police Department K9 handlers and used to inform the public about BPD’s K9 program.
The post in question pertained to donations to the department for a bullet-proof vest for K9 Havoc, the newest member of the BPD K9 team. Though the money was raised, we thought City Beat readers might be interested to know exactly how K9 program funds are spent.
The following response is from Bartlesville Police Department Patrol/K9 Officer Sgt. Cody Lemmons:
When evaluating the cost of establishing a police canine team, many people understandably focus on the purchase price of the dog itself. In reality, the canine is only one component of a fully operational K9 unit. A successful program requires specialized equipment, a properly outfitted patrol vehicle, training equipment, and ongoing care to ensure the safety and effectiveness of both the handler and the canine.
The Bartlesville Police Department K9 Unit has been extremely fortunate to receive tremendous support from the community. Citizens routinely donate funds and equipment to help strengthen our K9 program, reducing the financial burden on the department. However, departments considering the addition of a canine team should understand the true investment required.
The following list represents common equipment and associated costs necessary to outfit a new police canine team. Prices are approximate and may fluctuate based on vendor availability, inflation, and equipment selection.
- K9 cost (cost of the dog) – Depends on level of dog training, breed, and where they were imported from. $9,500 to $20,000.
- K9 vehicle – No K9 equipment installed. $75,000.
- K9 insert – Canine cage that mounts in the patrol vehicle. $3,500 to $4,000.
- K9 heat alarm – Canine equipment that monitors the heat inside the patrol vehicle (soon to be mandatory). $2,000.
- K9 kennel – 10X10 kennel to house the dog at the handler’s residence. $1,099.
- K9 kennel cover – Applied over the kennel to shade the dog $230.
- K9 dog house – Used inside the kennel to shelter the dog. $219.
- K9 water bucket – Inside kennel to water dog $24.
- K9 kennel fan – Used to cool dog during the warm season. $382.
- K9 leashes – needed for all patrol dogs. $30 to $45.
- K9 flat collar – All K9 teams. $84.
- Correction collar – Used on all dogs for obedience. $22.
- Muzzle – Used for dual purpose dogs. $189.
- Flea and tick. $575 yearly.
- Dog food – Most dogs typically use one bag per month. $67 per 26 pounds of dog food
- K9 bedding – Placed inside all dog houses for insulation. $9 straw, $12 Cedar chips
- Indoor Kennel – Used in extreme heat or cold to house the dog indoors. $119.
- Bite suit – Used to train dual purpose dogs. $1,600 to $1,800.
- Ballistic vest – Assists in keeping dual purpose dog teams safe. $1,885.
Total cost (low end) – $98,104
The estimate above does not account for several recurring or location-specific expenses that should be considered when budgeting for a canine program, including:
- Concrete pad installation for the kennel
- Routine veterinary care and emergency medical expenses
- Annual vaccinations and preventative medications
- Handler and canine certification courses
- Continuing education and maintenance training
- Trainer fees
- Replacement equipment due to wear or damage
- Vehicle maintenance related to K9 equipment
- Veterinary emergency fund
A police canine team is a significant investment that provides exceptional value in patrol operations, suspect apprehension, narcotics detection, evidence recovery, tracking, and community engagement. Understanding the full scope of startup and recurring costs allows agencies to properly budget, seek grant funding, and build a sustainable K9 program.
While startup costs are substantial, the operational capabilities and public safety benefits provided by a well-trained canine team make it one of the most valuable specialty units within a law enforcement agency.
Special thanks to Sgt. Lemmons for this detailed report. And thanks to everyone who donated for Havoc’s vest!