Donor-funded K-9 Security Program provides patient security and therapy

Photo: Nick Aguirre and Odin — HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center

“A combative patient in an HonorHealth emergency room is screaming and throwing items while the physician tries to talk to her. An HonorHealth K-9 security team — comprised of a dedicated security officer and his trained canine — arrives and stands outside the door. Suddenly, a tense and potentially dangerous situation is instantly diffused by the mere presence of the handler and her dog. The patient calms down, listens to the doctor and agrees to cooperate.”
— Robin Teed, K-9 Program Lead

Canines and healthcare are a community partnership that elevates the quality of healthcare for Arizonans and their families undergoing medical treatment at any of HonorHealth’s nine Valley locations.

HonorHealth’s K-9 Security Program comprises a group of 23 highly trained handlers and protection dogs that ensure the safety of patients, staff and community while they receive and give care.

Our canine officer candidates are imported from Mexico through the generosity of donors, and both canines and their handlers go through a strict six-week K-9 training academy at HonorHealth to certify as a team through the National Police Canine Association (NPCA). The dogs are then certified as Patrol Dogs and become part of the HonorHealth staff.

All K-9 expenses, such as acquisition, training, equipment, food, supplies, boarding and vet care, are completely funded through the generosity of donors.

• $15 will provide shampoo to keep our K-9s fresh & clean.
• $20 will provide a K-9 with a new heavy-duty toy.
• $25 will feed one K-9 for one week.
• $100 will provide a new patrol leash for each of the K-9s.
• $250 will provide a new specialty harness for each K-9.
• $275 will cover a wellness visit for one K-9.
• $600 will feed one K-9 for six months.