Seattle Police Foundation raising money for drug detection dogs

SEATTLE — The Seattle Police Foundation is launching a fundraising campaign to buy two drug-detection dogs for the Seattle Police Department.

The campaign comes with the seizure of tens of thousands of fentanyl pills in recent months and a record number of overdose deaths across Washington last year, according to the foundation.

SPD does not have its own drug-detection dogs. Due to city budget cuts, the only way for the department to buy the dogs is through fundraising.

A new K-9 team could also help fight a deadly new drug appearing in Western Washington.

According to the foundation, the new synthetic drug carfentanyl is 100 times stronger than fentanyl and has already been linked to overdose deaths in Whatcom County. The drug is starting to be seen in Seattle, and SPD wants to be ready when it becomes more widespread.

Those with the foundation said their goal was to raise $32,000 to buy two high-quality dogs. The dogs would be bought from reputable vendors to help make sure they are able to meet the high standards required of police K-9s.

To donate, follow this link.

Cox Media Group