THE BURBANK POLICE CANINE (K-9) UNIT
The Burbank Police K-9 Unit was originally established in 1980 with one dual purpose dog which was assigned to the detective bureau. Since that time the unit has expanded to accommodate growth within the city and to adapt to the ever changing law enforcement environment. The mission of the K-9 unit is to serve the community in the deterrence of crime, protection of property and to support the functions of the Burbank Police Department.
Currently, the unit has two dual purpose K-9’s assigned to patrol and one
dedicated narcotics detection team. Recently the unit has expanded to include a
scent evidence team. Each assignment is unique, utilizing different breeds of
dogs. The patrol service dogs consist of a German Shepherd and a Belgium
Malinois. The narcotics detection team uses a Labrador Retriever and the scent
evidence team uses a Bloodhound. Each dog has a single handler and is supplied
with a vehicle that is equipped to transport the dog and their necessary
equipment. All the dogs live at home with their handlers. The service tenure
of the handlers is a minimum of 3 years, or as long as they choose to stay with
the program.
Since 1980 the K-9 unit has conducted approximately 32,000 searches
resulting in the capture and arrest of numerous felony suspects. These teams
have been instrumental in the seizure of a substantial amount of illegal
narcotics and significant asset forfeiture. K-9 teams are required to respond at
any time during the day or night and often work in the most dangerous
environments that law enforcement has to offer. The effective deployment of a
K-9 team can enhance the level of service that the department offers to the city
and, most importantly, the K-9 can save the life of a citizen and/or officer.
The K-9 is an effective deterrent and a useful instrument in crime prevention, as well as promoting positive public relations within the community where they serve. The members of the K-9 unit often volunteer their time and welcome the opportunity to provide education to the public in a variety of forums.
The average cost to run the K-9 unit is approx. $7,000 per year. This includes the cost of food, vet bills and minor equipment for the 3 full time dogs. To further supplement the cost of maintaining the unit, we have established a non-profit fund via the Burbank Women’s Club. This additional fund is a tax deductible donation that allows the unit to purchase needed equipment throughout the year.
“He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion” --- Cicero ---