NPDF K-9 Medical Fund assists in paying for K-9 Xena’s dental work.
K-9 Xena is a 2-year-old Dutch Shepherd working for Harris County Sheriff in Harris County, Texas. She is a dual-purpose K-9 and is known for having high drive and determination when carrying out her patrol work. Despite her young age, her journey has not been easy.
Xena joined Harris County Sheriff Department in January 2017. This was when the department first launched their K-9 unit, thanks to Deputy Bert Whittington and Constable Sherman Eagleton. Whittington and Xena first bonded during their handler and K-9 training, which Whittington generously paid for using money from his G.I. Bill.
During training, in July 2017, Xena broke a tooth. The dental work was funded by the department. Deputy Whittington, however, later observed additional damage and discomfort shown by Xena.
Due to budget constraints, the department was unable to pay for more dental work. The discomfort started to interfere with Xena’s ability to work and Deputy Whittington was informed that Xena “would either be retired or reclassified as a single purpose K-9.” After consulting with his family, Whittington decided to personally fund the nearly $4,000 dental bill.
When Chief Clerk Jill Harrison became aware of this, she reached out to the NPDF on Whittington’s behalf, hoping to offset these cost. Last month, the NPDF Medical Board decided to fully fund the costs requested by the Harris County Sheriff Department.
Whittington describes how “Xena’s procedure was successful, and she has returned back to full duty as a dual purpose K-9.” Both Deputy Whittington and the citizens of Harris County have expressed their thanks to the NPDF for its support and generosity.
The NPDF is proud to help alleviate Xena’s pain and assist with the costs of the medical procedures. The NPDF recognizes and commends the extent to which handlers like Whittington take care their K-9s, and is glad to reward his tremendous commitment.
The ongoing medical care for K-9s can be very expensive and most K-9 departments simply do not have the funds for the ever increasing medical costs for K-9s. The National Police Dog Foundation commends these K-9s for their dedication and service, and is proud to assist in the costs of Medical Care for K-9s. Please click on the button below to donate to our K-9 Medical Fund. The K-9s really need your help.
.fusion-button.button-10{width:auto;}CLICK HERE To Donate to the Medical Care for Active K-9s