A new recruit to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department will have a real nose for the job. “Sheriff,” a four year-old dutch shepherd trained in search and rescue and drug detection, is expected to become a deputy in June. Anderson County Sheriff Wes McClain says the addition of the canine was the initiative of Deputy Austin Jones, who’s also training as the dog’s handler.
Jones was able to obtain local sponsors to pay for the dog and its upkeep, including $16,500 donation from Patriots Bank to cover the cost of the dog and Jones’ training as its handler. Countryside Veterinary clinic agreed to provide health care for the animal at no cost, and Brummel Farm Service offered lifetime dog food for the program and in Greeley, they’re wanting to do golf tournaments and cornhole tournaments for fundraisers. Jones says this is something that the community’s funding.
Mcclain says search or detection canines available in the region could be several hours away if a need arose locally.
