This K9 Handling Guide is designed to assist LSPD K9 handlers in effectively managing and utilizing their canine partners during various law enforcement operations. It encompasses best practices for training, deployment, care, and handling to ensure the safety of both the K9 and the public.

1. Health and Nutrition:

   1. 1. 1. • Provide high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of your K9.

            • Ensure fresh water is available at all times.

            • Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and dental care.

2. Grooming:

   1. 1. 1. • Maintain regular grooming, including brushing, bathing, and nail trimming, to ensure the K9's health and hygiene.

            • Inspect the K9’s ears, eyes, and paws regularly for signs of injury or infection.

3. Physical Conditioning:

   1. 1. 1. • Engage the K9 in regular exercise and training sessions to maintain physical fitness.

            • Monitor the K9's weight and adjust food portions as necessary to maintain optimal health.

1. Training Protocols:

   1. 1. • Use positive reinforcement methods to encourage desired behaviors during training.

         • Regularly refresh training in specific operational areas (e.g., narcotics detection, suspect apprehension).

2. Pre-Deployment Checks:

   1. 1. • Conduct a pre-deployment check to assess the K9’s physical condition and readiness.

         • Ensure the K9's Armor is fresh, and they are fully fed and watered

         • Review deployment objectives with the K9 and ensure they understand the tasks required.

3.  Deployment Procedures:

   1. 1. • Deploy the K9 only in situations where their skills are applicable and necessary.

         • Communicate clearly with other officers and establish a plan for the K9’s role in the operation.

1. Leash and Control:

   • Always use a strong, appropriate leash to maintain control of the K9 during operations.

   • Use a harness or special equipment if necessary, especially for high-stress situations.

2. K9 Commands:

   • Use consistent commands in a clear and authoritative voice to guide the K9.

   • Ensure all team members understand and use the same commands to avoid confusion.

3. K9 Behavior Management:

   • Remain aware of the K9's body language and behavior, as these can indicate stress, excitement, or aggression.

   • Calmly redirect the K9’s focus if they become distracted or overly excited.

4. K-9 Division Patrol Numbers

   • Given the extensive training and costs associated with the K-9 Division, we limit the team to a maximum of five officers. These officers are hand-selected by the three Chiefs, ensuring that only the best of the best are part of this elite unit.

   • Please note that only one K-9 is permitted per dispatch call. If you are dispatched to a call that already has a K-9 assigned, you must return your K-9 partner to the Police Department.

1. Public Safety:

   • Assess the environment before deploying the K9 to ensure the safety of bystanders and officers.

2. Emergency Situations:

   • Be prepared to quickly secure the K9 if the situation escalates or if the K9 is in danger.

   • Have a first aid kit available for the K9 and be familiar with basic first aid procedures.

3. Use of Force Guidelines:

   • Follow LSPD’s use-of-force policies when deploying the K9 for suspect apprehension.

   • Ensure the K9 is used as a last resort when verbal commands and other methods have failed.

1. Incident Reports:

   • Document all K9 deployments, including the circumstances, actions taken, and outcomes in your Incident Report

   • Report any injuries to the K9 or any incidents of concern to the Division Commander immediately.

2. Training Logs:

   • Maintain up-to-date training logs that record all training sessions, exercises, and evaluations.

   • Submit training logs to the Division Commander for review during quarterly evaluations.

1. Public Demonstrations:

   • Participate in community events to showcase the capabilities of K9s and promote positive community relations.

   • Use these opportunities to educate the public on the roles and responsibilities of the K9 Unit.

2. Media Interactions:

   • Coordinate with the Division Commander before engaging with media regarding K9 operations.

   • Maintain a positive public image by highlighting the benefits of the K9 Unit to community safety.

1. Use of K9 for Apprehension:

   1. • K9s may be deployed to apprehend suspects when there is an immediate threat to officer or public safety, and other means of apprehension have been considered or deemed ineffective.

      • Handlers must give clear verbal commands to the K9 during apprehension and maintain control of the K9 at all times.

2. Use of K9 for Crowd Control:

   1. • K9s may be utilized in crowd control situations to deter aggressive behavior. Handlers should ensure the K9’s presence is appropriate to the situation and does not escalate tensions unnecessarily.

      • K9s should remain on a leash during crowd control deployments unless in a controlled environment where the handler can ensure the safety of the K9 and the public.

3. Documentation and Reporting:

   1. • All uses of K9s involving any level of force must be documented in a detailed incident report. This report should include the circumstances leading to the deployment, actions taken during the deployment, and any injuries incurred.

4. Training Requirements:

   1. • K9 handlers are required to complete training on the use of force specific to K9 deployment, including understanding the use-of-force continuum, effective communication, and de-escalation techniques.

5. Accountability:

   1. • Any misuse or improper application of K9 force will be subject to investigation and potential disciplinary action. Handlers must be held accountable for their actions and the actions of their K9 partners.

6. K-9's Defense of Life

   1. • If an Individual has a weapon out and is getting extremely hostile, where you feel your life or others around you could be in danger. Give that individual 2-3 warnings to put their weapon away. If they do not cooperate, you can release the K-9 unit to neutralize the suspect. 

7. K-9's Suspicious Calls

   1. • Officers must approach individuals first and conduct an investigation before releasing K-9 Unit. If officers arrive on scene and witness a hand to hand trade, you can approach the suspect and question them. If they aren't being cooperative in regards to being questioned about drug distribution, inform them that you do have a K-9 unt in the patrol car who specializes in drug detection. If the suspect is still being uncooperative you may release the K-9 unit to investigate. If the K-9 is alerted in any capacity it is considered Probable Cause.

A. General Guidelines

1. Secure Transport:

   • K-9s must be securely transported in a designated K-9 vehicle equipped with appropriate safety features, including a secure crate or kennel.

   • Ensure that the K-9 is restrained using a safety harness or leash when not in a crate.

   • You are PROHIBITED from using your K-9 if you are patrolling in an Interceptor or Motorcycle unit. 

B. Pre-Transport Checks

1. Health and Condition:

   • Prior to transport, assess the K-9’s health and condition. Ensure they are fit for travel and free from any injury or distress. Ensure they have their bodycam, GPS, and Armor on.

2. Equipment Check:

   • Verify that all transport equipment (crates, harnesses, leashes) is in good condition and functioning properly.

C. During Transport

1. Calm Environment:

   • Keep the environment calm and quiet to minimize stress for the K-9. Avoid loud music or disruptive behavior in the vehicle.

2. Routine Stops:

   • Schedule regular stops during longer transports to allow the K-9 to stretch, relieve itself, and hydrate.

D. Post-Transport Procedures

1. Debrief and Care:

   • Upon arrival, conduct a quick assessment of the K-9’s condition and provide necessary care, including hydration and a chance to relieve itself.