Tri-City Sun

State Representative Mike Hoadley has reintroduced legislation aimed at ensuring retired police canines receive necessary medical care. House Bill 4012 proposes that emergency medical transport and treatment be extended to retired police dogs, similar to the services currently available for working police dogs injured on duty.

Hoadley explained the significance of police canines, stating, "Police canines help keep fellow officers safe through patrol and security tasks, and they are critical parts of first responder teams that protect our families and neighborhoods. They also help reunite people through complex search and rescue operations." He emphasized the need for proper care for these animals after their service: "Former law enforcement dogs who have retired due to age or disease deserve recognition, gratitude and proper care after the vital services they have provided for us and our communities."

The inspiration behind this bill is a local police canine named Canjo, who served with the Saginaw Police Department from December 2011 until his retirement in February 2019. Canjo required back surgery in June 2021 due to work-related injuries but later suffered complications from sepsis. The delay in receiving urgent veterinary care highlighted gaps in current legislation. Hoadley noted, "Adequate, immediate emergency care would have netted a different result for Canjo," adding that no one should wait so long for essential treatment.

Hoadley's plan has garnered bipartisan support and has been referred to the House Government Operations Committee for further consideration.