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Purpose:
To establish consistent procedures for disciplinary action, withdrawal from active service, and retirement of police service dogs and handlers within the Department’s K-9 Program. This policy ensures fairness, accountability, and humane treatment throughout a K-9’s service life.

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Progressive Discipline

All infractions or negligence involving a K-9 handler or their assigned K-9 shall be addressed through a standardized, progressive process. Disciplinary actions are designed to correct behavior, protect public safety, and maintain program integrity. Progressive Steps:
  1. Verbal Warning — Issued for minor procedural errors, missed documentation entries, or isolated lapses in conduct.
  2. Written Warning — Applied for repeated procedural violations, improper equipment use, or disregard of minor safety standards.
  3. Retraining Order — Mandated when performance, control, or behavioral deficiencies indicate the need for remedial instruction or supervision.
  4. Suspension of K-9 Use — Temporary removal of both handler and K-9 from active duty pending formal review, investigation, or retraining.
  5. Removal from Program — Enacted for major misconduct, chronic neglect, unethical treatment, or willful disregard of Department or legal policy.
All disciplinary actions shall be:
  • Documented in writing, signed by the handler, reviewing supervisor, and Head of K-9 Personnel.
  • Reviewed by the Head of K-9 Personnel with notification to the chain of command.
  • Appealable through written request to the Office of the Commissioner within ten (10) business days of notice.
No K-9 or handler shall return to active duty until clearance and authorization are formally issued.

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Withdrawal from Service

A K-9 may be withdrawn from active duty when operational readiness, health, or behavior renders continued service unsafe or ineffective. Grounds for Withdrawal:
  • Medical condition, illness, or injury that prevents continued duty performance.
  • Behavioral instability or aggression posing a threat to handler, officers, or the public.
  • Consistent failure to maintain proficiency in detection, obedience, or apprehension standards despite retraining efforts.
Withdrawal from service shall require:
  • Veterinary documentation from a licensed professional verifying the condition or limitation.
  • Formal approval by the Head of K-9 Personnel following review of all supporting evidence.
  • Administrative entry in the K-9’s permanent service file and the Department’s K-9 registry.
Once withdrawn, the K-9 may be reassigned to non-operational roles (training aid, demonstration use) or transitioned to retirement evaluation.

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Retirement Procedures

When a police service dog reaches the end of its operational life due to age, health, or other qualifying conditions, a formal retirement process shall be initiated. Retirement Process:
  • The handler shall be given first right of adoption, pending suitability review and housing conditions.
  • If the handler declines or is unable to assume ownership, the K-9 may be transferred to an approved rescue, rehabilitation, or training facility specializing in retired working dogs.
  • In exceptional cases where the K-9 suffers from irreversible medical conditions causing pain or loss of quality of life, humane euthanasia may be authorized under the care of a licensed veterinarian and with approval from the Head of K-9 Personnel.
Each retirement case shall include:
  • A final performance evaluation conducted by the Senior K-9 Officer.
  • A complete health record and veterinary clearance report.
  • A closure entry in the K-9 Performance and Service Log indicating reason, date, and outcome of retirement.
Upon retirement, the Department may conduct a ceremonial recognition honoring the K-9’s service to the community and the partnership with its handler.