Deputy Brian Rutledge of Air Operations and Deputy Todd Henry of the K9 detail collaborated and put together an intense, all day training session involving both units. Air Operations and K9 can be major contributing factors towards the containment and capture of fleeing suspects. Frequent training has been established to ensure a safe operation and, a well coordinated approach and effort in capturing suspects attempting to evade officers.

Before anybody could say "who let the dogs out" though, Deputy Rutledge facilitated a very thorough and in depth safety briefing for all of the handlers and air crews. Prior to starting the helicopters, the handlers retrieved their respective partners and walked them around the hangar and the aircraft. Training was also conducted in safely loading and unloading the K9 teams in the helicopter. This helped the teams get used to the environment in and around the helicopter.

Once all of the dogs (and air crews) appeared calm and comfortable, came the big test. The helo's were fired up. As safety is the number one priority, all of the dogs were muzzled and wore shoulder harnesses. An "environmental" walk was conducted around the running aircraft. The dogs and handlers responded like the true professionals they are, and this exercise was completed without incident or any remedial training.

Each K9 team was then individually loaded into the EC120 patrol helicopter and shuttled to and from a predetermined training spot. Upon completion of that event, the big boy was brought out. The Huey, which is primarily used for troop and cargo transport, was called into action. This allowed the K9 detail to load more teams and work on tactical training. Typical to this type of training, the Huey is flown with doors open. Once again, the handlers and their partners executed the training scenarios with the precision and skill we have all come to take for granted.

A special thanks goes out to the commanders and supervisors of these units, for endorsing these training days and supporting their troops efforts. This type of training requires a huge amount of preparation and logistics. Once again, thanks to all of the professionals involved, the day ended with all training scenarios and objectives met and successfully completed. The strict adherence to safety regulations and procedures, ended the day with no injuries or training boo-boos to handlers, dogs, air crews or equipment.

Even though this may look like a bunch of guys and their dogs out having fun (they probably are) flying around in helicopters and getting to play with some pretty cool equipment, it is all taken very seriously. The goal is to provide the Sheriff Department with resources and support second to none. In doing this, it provides the community being served by these dedicated individuals, the very same, a service second to none.

Pictures of this event can be seen by clicking on the gallery link at http://www.airopscops.com/index.php/gallery/category/C6/. Also, please go to http://www.ssdk9.com to learn more about the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department K9 Unit