By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

Jocko, the sheriff department’s two-year-old Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd cross, assisted federal agents and Wilkin County (Breckenridge area) on March 17, in relation to a federal arrest warrant.

A year ago the Otter Tail County Board of commissioners approved the addition of a second dog, Jocko, after the retirement of Mojo, a Dutch Shepherd who served for nine years with the county K9 unit. For several years the county K9 program has been under the direction of sheriff K9 officer Zach Eifert.

“Our K9 unit has been involved in multiple uses over the years, here in Otter Tail County and in adjoining counties,” said Sheriff Barry Fitzgibbons. “This second dog, Jocko, is needed in Otter Tail County and also as a regional asset.”

Adds County Commissioner Kurt Mortenson of rural Underwood, “It’s well and good that we recognize the value of canine units. Our K9 program enhances officer safety and bolsters the protection of residents here in Otter Tail County and in nearby counties.”

Dogs used in law enforcement are chosen for their intelligence, working drive and strong sense of smell. Officers such as Eifert are more than just dog handlers. They attend classes with their dogs in order to develop unique relationships.

It is 24/7 when calls came in for vehicle sniffs, search warrants and narcotics sniffs. Eifert and his K9 dogs train periodically with other dogs and handlers as part of canine associations, the closest being in West Fargo.

Recertification takes place annually through the U.S. Police Canine Association and the North American Police Work Dog Association.