The Alameda Police Department K9 Program was established in 1980 and due to its success it was permanently implemented into the Patrol Division. Currently, the Department has two K9 teams consisting of Officer Vanessa Dubon and her Police Service Dog (PSD) "Argo" and Officer Armando Zaragoza and his PSD "Dexter". Argo is a German Shepherd from Slovakia and Dexter is a mix of the German Shepard and Belgian Malinois breeds from Hungary.
Before the PSD and officer can begin their patrol assignments, they must go through a rigorous canine handler course and pass a certification process. This ensures they meet the requirements set forth by the California P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training). After the team is certified, they will then complete weekly training sessions and annual certifications to ensure the team maintains their skills. K-9 teams are certified for dual purpose work, which includes patrol tactics and narcotic detection. Patrol tactics consist of area searches, building searches, tracking, article searches, handler protection, and physical apprehension. Narcotic detection includes searching for illegal drugs.
Officer Dubon and PSD Argo made a perfect match when they met January 6, 2014. After successfully completing their canine handler course, Officer Dubon and PSD Argo began working patrol on the swing shift. Officer Dubon and PSD Argo enjoy working together and helping the community.
Officer Zaragoza and PSD Dexter are the newest members of the Alameda Police K9 Unit and hit the streets together on October 2nd, 2016. They will also be working patrol on swing shift.
Reminder that Police K9's are not pets and should only be approached while the handler is present and supervising any interaction with the PSD.
If you have any questions about the K9 program, please email the K9 Supervisor, Sgt. Darin Tsujimoto- dtsujimo@alamedaca.gov
