BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (WTXL) — Police work can be dangerous work. That's why Bainbridge Public Safety K-9 officer "Kenzo" is getting a protective vest.
The gear may not arrive until April but that's not stopping Kenzo from making an impact.
Officer George McMillan, Kenzo's handler, tells WTXL that at home, Kenzo is just like an ordinary house dog. He loves to play with toys and kids, and even watch TV.
But Kenzo isn't just a regular dog. He's a narcotics and tracking K-9 officer, and loves what he does. Right now his uniform is just a harness.
"He thinks it's his little police vest. When he sees me walk through the house with that, he goes nuts. He's at the door waiting for me trying to put his head through his harness so he can come to work," said McMillan.
Even K-9 officers need to be protected from dangers, just like the rest of the squad. This duo responds to a lot of traffic stops.
Recently, McMillan applied and was approved for a protective vest from a non-profit, "Vested interest in K-9s."
"It fees great. I know when we're out on a call, not only and I somewhat protected, he is highly protected as well. It ain't right for me to wear my vest and expect him to not where his when we get out on a call. He has a right to be protected just as much as we do," said McMillan.
Kenzo's best friend is excited and thrilled that his K-9 partner will finally be protected the way that he deserves.
Kenzo has been at Bainbridge Public Safety for about two years now. K-9's don't usually retire until they've served for about six years.
