The K-9 unit and training for a selected officer will be provided by Integrity K9 of Texas, based out of Huntsville. Integrity K9 of Texas owner and operator Greg Smith said his company is in the process of giving away two dogs to police departments, the other of which was accepted by Liberty County.
"You are a growing community that is still hanging on to your values," Smith said. "Your [police] chief has identified a problem ... I just want to give you guys an opportunity to get on top of it right now."
Smith said Shenandoah Police Chief Troye Dunlap had requested a single-purpose narcotics dog, and the four weeks of training will be provided.
According to information submitted to the City Council, a typical K-9 unit costs between $17,000 and $25,000. The city will have to pay a total of $12,500, which will cover upfitting a vehicle, accessories for the K-9 and an outdoor kennel for the K-9. The expenses will be reflected in Shenandoah's third quarter budget amendments.
Smith said costs such as veterinary services are often donated for K-9 units, and the amount of time that it can remain active varies, but his previous K-9 unit was active for around eight years.
Dunlap added the K-9 unit can also help the department with recruiting officers in the future.
The City Council unanimously approved to accept the award from Integrity K9 of Texas.
