K-9 ‘officer’ Rudy on patrol in Gilpin
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A once-hesitant pup is patrolling with confidence in Gilpin.
Rudy, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, certified by the North American Police Work Dog Association, joined the Gilpin police department on Dec. 17, 2019.
Gilpin Supervisor Chairman Charlie Stull said Rudy has honed his “officer” skills during the past eight months.
“When we first got Rudy, he was a scared dog that didn’t want to come near anyone,” Stull said. “Now, Rudy is a lovebug who loves treats and being petted by every township employee,” Stull said.
Rudy specializes in detecting drugs such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines — living and patrolling with handler and partner, police Chief Chris Fabec.
He is the second active police dog in Armstrong County, with another canine serving with the Armstrong County Sheriff’s Department.
Rudy’s “uniform” includes a customized bulletproof vest (approximate value $1,200) that was donated in 2019 by local businessman Mark Fetterman.
Donations and fundraising have financed Rudy’s certification, and he was added to the force at zero cost to township taxpayers.
“Rudy is still free to Gilpin taxpayers,” Stull said. “All equipment and training is paid for by donations or time is donated.”
Stull said the high cost of financing police dog training often deters townships from acquiring a police dog.
Rudy’s notable highlights while on duty include participating in a rescue search in Burrell Township, Armstrong County.
“Rudy assisted with locating a young boy that had gotten away from his group at Crooked Creek State Park. The boy was located unharmed and uninjured,” Stull said.
Rudy’s keen sense of smell has proved instrumental in numerous drug cases, Fabec said.
Rudy is capable of signaling on narcotics as well as pursuing suspects and tracking when needed.
The Belgian Malinois breed is a popular choice for training as police dogs.
Gilpin resident Dylan Long, 14, recently visited with Rudy at Myers Pickle Farm, a popular farm stand along Route 66.
Long said he recognizes Rudy’s value as a police dog.
“It’s good we have Rudy because it’s an extra defense for our township. I think he’s a deterrent because the word is out that Rudy is patrolling for drugs,” Long said.
Karli Mazak, 15, of Gilpin said Rudy has some skills that his human co-workers don’t possess.
“Rudy is fast and can run faster than a human,” Mazak said. “Not all townships have a K-9 dog and Gilpin does, so I think that’s one step up in safety.”
Stull said community reaction to Rudy has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Kids and adults alike love him and love knowing he’s here to serve our community,” Stull said.