Approximately $13,000 has been raised for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to add two K-9 units to its force. The department is continuing to raise funds to reach the $17,000 threshold for a contract for two canines and five weeks of training. Deputy Nolan Burke explains tonight’s fundraiser begins at 5 p.m. at Unc and Neph’s with 10 percent of the profits going to the K-9 fund. Burke and Deputy Nathan Schmuecker will be in attendance to answer any questions.

Burke adds having two K-9 teams will help the department have quicker response times whether it is a search for a child or a traffic stop with search. Currently the sheriff’s office is waiting for assistance from other departments and there isn’t always a dog available. The department is also seeking a Washington County Riverboat Foundation grant to help fund the program.

For more information listen to today’s Washington Page.