HCRSPA welcomes K-9 Officer to its April meeting

K-9 Officer, Axel, and his well-trained two-legged assistant Officer Scott Bell presented an excellent program to the HCRSPA (Henry County Retired School Personnel Association). Before Axel was introduced to the audience, Officer Scott brought in the many items needed to have a successful canine program.

The bite suit worn during training by a volunteer was impressive in its size and protective material. The weapon resistant vest worn by Axel on duty demonstrated how important protection is for every officer. Axel’s vest is carefully fitted to his shape and profile.

The vest also made the audience realize how expensive a canine program can be for our local law enforcement. Additional items included boxes for a demonstration of finding a drug stash and simple things like reward toys when the job is completed well.

Axel’s initial cost for purchase, training for both he and his assistant, continued training is an important consideration. After meeting Axel and watching him demonstrate his expertise, the viewers were more convinced than ever of the worth of the program.

The K-9 officers (both 4 & 2 legged) train constantly. Training often uses real incidents to extend the knowledge of all. Officer Bell told of a recent exercise.

A suspect had dressed in a sheet somewhat like a ghost. The dogs responding to this totally new experience were unsure how to react. A training exercise was planned and developed to help dogs react properly to the unexpected.

Axel is scent trained for drug detection but also is trained to track. He does not search for bombs or cadavers.

A lively discussion was held regarding the need in law enforcement for different expertise in canines. Officer Bell made sure that everyone knew that the TV shows were not reality in the real K-9 officer world.

One often hears reference to K-9s being trained using a foreign language. Axel knows two foreign language commands.

Another important aspect of caring for a “drug” dog duo is the availability of Narcan for both officers. An accidental overdose to the dog is very likely. During the demonstration “where is the drug”, Axel vigorously attacked the guilty box.

In real life, a stash might not be so well protected so an overdose might actually occur. Another aspect of group training is cooperation. Henry County is often called to assist other units in southeast Iowa.

Sheriff Rich McNamee is well aware of the importance of this program and has established a reliable relationship with departments in our area. . Henry County may need help some day in the future.

Last but not least, Officer Axel must deal with the public as well as live at home with a family. If all goes well, he will retire after 10 or 12 years.

It is important that he establishes an “off duty” persona. In his on-duty life as wwell, he must distinguish between the “good” guys and the others. He demonstrated that knowledge by visiting everyone in the room, finding some favorites but accepting praise from all.

It was also easy to recognize that if push came to shove, he would please his assistant officer first. Axel was presented with a bag of treats and Officer Bell joined the group for lunch.

HCRSPA is always accepting members. “Retired” is a bit nebulous. If you have the first Wednesday of each month free, you are retired enough. The important part of the title is the School Personnel part. It is also an ill-defined designation.

Yes, many are teachers but the VIP members of our school system – custodians, bus drivers, cafeteria staff are also members. Secretaries, administrators, substitutes and in general all interested in education are welcome. No, you do not have to be from Henry County. A car-pool system is activated when the group travels any distance from Mount Pleasant. The May meeting will be at Swedesburg at the Swedish American Museum.