k-9 units Four-legged officers

In Mahoning County, five police departments have active K-9 units. Some facts:

The initial cost of purchasing a K-9 unit and its equipment averages $11,000.

Locally, seized drug money and donations make up the bulk of funds used for canine units.

PetSmart donates dog food for the Canfield and Boardman units.

On average, police dogs are primarily male.

The canines are required to have 16 hours of training each month.

The dogs live with their police handlers when not on duty.

Source: Patrolman Mike Sroka of Canfield City Police