GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- In the final installment of our Paws Before Boots series, we take a close look at how the K-9 police dogs enter retirement, how they adjust to life away from the job, and, ultimately, how the Grand Rapids Police Department honors them when they pass away. Parts 1 and 2 are available at the end of this article.
When the dogs retire, they are sold to the handlers for $1 to live out the rest of their days with the family of which they've become such a big part. Given the toll that police work can take on the dogs' physical well-being, the Grand Rapids Police Canine Foundation exists to help cover veterinary costs, and pay for the new breed of canine crime fighters.
Click here for information on how to donate to the foundation and get involved in this unique world of law enforcement.
