Ariz. nonprofit aims to make K-9 trauma kits less bulky, expensive for LEOs

By Joanna Putman
Police1

PHOENIX — The Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association and Circle K volunteers are providing custom-made handler trauma kits to law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners, AZfamily reported.

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Joanna Putman

The kits, designed to ensure rapid response during medical emergencies, include essential items such as bandages, chest seals, Narcan, and Benadryl according to the report. They are designed to be flat and fit underneath an officer’s vest for easy accessibility.

“You’re creating a kit that you know is going to directly impact humans and dogs and save their lives,” said Tony Sanborn, president of ALECA.

For nearly five years, ALECA has been working to improve the design of trauma kits, addressing issues with existing bulky kits that can get caught on seatbelts or hinder movement, according to the report. The current kits, priced at over $200, are cumbersome and have been problematic in the field.

This year, ALECA plans to distribute nearly 125 kits to over 80 law enforcement agencies across Arizona, according to the report.

The perimeter is tight. The channel is secured. The K-9 unit is logged on and is rolling to your location to assist in locating a suspect. Here are 10 things patrol officers can do to increase success when the police K-9 team shows up: