The Fairbanks Police Department maintains an active K-9 program within the Patrol Division. The department currently has one active team, consisting of a working dog and handler, certified in patrol tactics and drug detection.
Officer Foster, and his K-9 partner Baron, responds to patrol requests for drug searches, tracking of suspects, building searches, warrant services, and public/educational demonstrations. Our K-9 Unit also provides assistance on an as-needed basis for other area agencies.
In addition to patrol work, the K-9 Unit conducts public appearances (with the addition of recently retired K-9 Keva and her handler, Officer Jim Lowe) including such events as the Mush for Kids, Golden Days, and the Midnight Sun Street Fair.
These appearances give the public an opportunity to meet the dogs and speak with the handlers. People are also encouraged to pet the K-9s and have their pictures taken with the dogs. The K-9’s have been featured at the Interior Police K-9 Association booth, where they helped to raise funds with t-shirt sales and donations.