The Brief
- The new $6 million Hillsborough County Canine Training Complex provides a state-of-the-art training facility and regional boarding unit for K9s.
- Dogs must undergo 480 hours of rigorous training at the facility to officially become active patrol K9 deputies.
- Sheriff Chad Chronister stated the facility acts as a safe, air-conditioned shelter for the dogs during hurricanes or handler vacations.
TAMPA, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has opened a new $6 million Canine Training Complex designed to train and board regional police dogs.
Hillsborough County facility
What we know:
Before a K9 deputy can track a suspect or sniff out narcotics, the dog must finish 480 hours of training. The new $6 million Canine Training Complex offers a state-of-the-art environment to prepare these dogs for tasks humans cannot do.
Sheriff Chad Chronister explained that the facility serves as a regional asset where handlers from a seven-county area can train and board their dogs. The complex features an air-conditioned environment to keep the animals safe during hurricanes or when handlers travel out of town.
Sheriff Chronister on dog safety
What they’re saying:
“This is a state-of-the-art training facility and boarding unit,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This is a regional asset, which means anyone from around the seven-county regional area can come here to train, but also leave their dogs here.” …