Policy Text
Policy Delano Police Department
310 Delano PD Policy Manual
Canines
310.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This policy establishes guidelines for the use of canines to augment police services in the
community, including but not limited to locating individuals and contraband and apprehending
criminal offenders.
310.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Delano Police Department that teams of handlers and canines meet
and maintain the appropriate proficiency to effectively and reasonably carry out legitimate law
enforcement objectives.
310.3 ASSIGNMENT
Canine teams should be assigned to assist and supplement the Patrol Division to function primarily
in assist or cover assignments. However, they may be assigned by the Watch Commander to
other functions, such as routine calls for service, based on the current operational needs.
Canine teams should generally not be assigned to handle routine matters that will take them out
of service for extended periods of time. If such assignment is necessary, it should only be made
with the approval of the Watch Commander.
310.4 CANINE COORDINATOR
The canine coordinator shall be appointed by and directly responsible to the Patrol Division or
the authorized designee.
The responsibilities of the coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a) Reviewing all canine use reports to ensure compliance with policy and to identify
training issues and other needs of the program.
(b) Maintaining a liaison with the vendor kennel.
(c) Maintaining a liaison with command staff and functional supervisors.
(d) Maintaining a liaison with other agency canine coordinators.
(e) Maintaining accurate records to document canine activities.
(f) Recommending and overseeing the procurement of equipment and services for the
teams of handlers and canines.
(g) Scheduling all canine-related activities.
(h) Ensuring the canine teams are scheduled for regular training to maximize their
capabilities.
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2019/12/06, All Rights Reserved. Canines - 1
Published with permission by Delano Police Department