Three new K-9s join local law enforcement agencies, three celebrate retirement

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — Two new K-9s have joined the Hermantown Police Department, taking over the reins of two long-serving K-9s who are entering retirement.

K-9s Tuuko and Jack are both retiring after serving for around 10 years on the force. Both of the dogs accomplishing many feats in their time.

K-9s Bruno and Kylo have graduated from their training and will be joining their handlers in the field.

Both the retirees and newcomers came from the Northland K-9 Foundation and have numerous functions on the force.

“Bruno, he is a dual-purpose dog, so he’s trained in narcotics, and then also he is a patrol dog, so apprehension tracking, article. So, you know, someone tosses a piece of evidence, he’s trying to find it. And then, obviously, all the dogs are trained in obedience, so he’s supposed to listen to mom,” Officer Olivia Gottschald with the Hermantown Police Department said.

The new handlers have learned a lot from those who came before them and hope to follow in the successful careers of their K-9s.

“It’s a bittersweet moment because, you know, I absolutely adore Tuuko and Jack, but you know we’re ready to fill those shoes, and we’re just hoping that we can do just a percentage of what they did, because they’re amazing pups,” Officer Gottschald said.

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office also retired K-9 Donny after five years on the force and welcomed newcomer K-9 Ollie.

Both are also dual-purpose and assist their handlers with many tasks.