Metro Atlanta

Foundation donates K-9 officer to Woodstock police

A new K-9 recruit, "Tessa," will soon be joining the Woodstock Police Department K-9 unit, shown here in a 2017 photo. Tessa will replace Dugan, the recently retired K-9 officer at far right. CITY OF WOODSTOCK
A new K-9 recruit, "Tessa," will soon be joining the Woodstock Police Department K-9 unit, shown here in a 2017 photo. Tessa will replace Dugan, the recently retired K-9 officer at far right. CITY OF WOODSTOCK
By David Ibata for the AJC
July 15, 2020

The Woodstock Police Department’s latest recruit, “Tessa,” comes by way of the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, which paid $14,500 to cover the costs of the new K-9 officer’s acquisition and training.

The Woodstock City Council accepted the donation of Tessa, to be cross-trained in narcotics detection, tracking and patrol work. Tessa will replace the recently retired K-9 Officer “Dugan.”

Arete Canine LLC, provider of the police dog, said it will train Tessa “in the areas of criminal apprehension, handler protection, building search, area search, felony vehicle stops, narcotics detection (marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth), scent discrimination tracking/trailing, and tactical obedience.”

The training includes a 12-week handler course at locations around metro Atlanta following a two-week initial bonding period, Arete said. Continuing education and training will be provided at no additional charge for one year.

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David Ibata for the AJC

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