1. Responds to situations that indicate a need for canine support.
2. Responds to missing persons reports where a canine may be used for tracking.
3. Responds to calls for canine backup where a suspect might be at large in the vicinity and a canine is needed to assist officers with finding and apprehending individuals who may be hiding or armed and dangerous.
4. Responds to situations where there is reasonable suspicion of drug presence and a canine is trained to locate drugs.
5. Provides for the training and care of the assigned canine.
6. Participates in the selection and training of a canine and attends formal training necessary to prepare self and the canine for duty.
7. Ensures that the canine is properly fed, sheltered, groomed, and exercised.
8. Controls the canine to prevent injury to individuals and associated liabilities.
9. Ensures appropriate veterinary care is provided, including health checks and immunizations.
10. Prepares reports of all canine use, including use of force.

Requirements:

• Two years of experience as a Fargo Police Officer
• Ability to work with animals and command obedience
• Ability to properly house and care for the canine
• Ability to pass and maintain K-9 Certification

Environmental Conditions:

• Work includes following the canine into areas or terrain that may be rough or difficult to access. In some cases, the K-9 Officer may have more proximate exposure to dangerous fugitives. Care for the canine may present some restrictions of activities and time commitment during non-working hours because of the need to either bring the canine with the officer or return home to care for the canine. Handling the canine may require the ability to lift or restrain the canine where considerable effort is necessary. All the physical demands and working conditions of a patrol officer apply within this assignment.