Mesa Police Department K9 Unit

The current Mesa Police Canine unit was formed in January 1989. At that time there were three Police Service Dog (PSD) handlers, each with a Police dog. All three dogs were trained as dual-purpose dogs. Each dog was trained to locate people and also trained as narcotic detection dogs. PSD handlers are full time sworn Officers of the Mesa Police Department.

Today there are several Police Service Dogs working within the Mesa Police Department. All of the dogs are trained as dual-purpose dogs. Each dog is trained to find persons. All of the dogs are sociable.

The safety of the public and other police officers are the prime concern to members of the Mesa Police Department Canine Unit. The dogs keen sense of smell allow hiding suspects to be located easier and safer, and usually much quicker than officers searching by themselves. The dogs are used to search open areas, buildings, and commercial yards for suspects. The psychological effect of having a dog present in a tense situation proves beneficial to all. Countless times the dogs' presence has de-escalated violent scenes without any physical force having to be used.

Hundreds of pounds of illegal drugs are taken off the streets of Mesa each year with the aid of the narcotic dogs. The bomb detection dog is an extreme asset to the citizens of Mesa. Numerous bomb searches are conducted at our schools and businesses after threats are received. To date, two actual bombs have been discovered with the aid of the bomb dog.

Each Police Service Dog handler takes their Police car and dog home with them each day. The Canine Unit provides seven-day a week coverage and is subject to callout at any time when they are off duty.