The Mount Horeb Police Canine Program was established several years ago by Officer Brian Joyner, who then had several bloodhounds that he trained for tracking and cadaver work. He also used a Labrador Retriever that was trained in narcotics detection. Officer Joyner has since left the agency and is an instructor for police officers at The Western Wisconsin Technical College in Lacrosse.

The current canine officer for the department is Officer Blaine Hall, who began training a six month old female German Shepherd named Sierra in January 2000. Sierra is currently being used in search and rescue and as a tracker, and in cadaver/forensic detection. For information on the Central Wisconsin Search & Rescue please visit: Central Wisconsin Search & Rescue Web Page!

In addition, Officer Hall has a male German Shepherd named Bak, who is trained in tracking, narcotics detection, criminal apprehension, and handler protection. Officer Hall and Bak are currently assigned to the night shift patrol.

In the event of an urgent K9 request, please call (608) 437-5522 and ask for Officer Hall.  Either the Mount Horeb Police Department staff or the Dane County 911 Center will take the appropriate action to put your request for assistance through to Officer Hall.  To contact Officer Hall for non-emergency information, please call (608) 437-5524, extension 115.

"Trust in me, my friend, for I am your comrade.  I will protect you with my last breath.  Together we will conquer all obstacles and search out those who might wish to harm others...I am a Police Working Dog and together we are the Guardians of the Night."     Author Unknown