SAN LUIS, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The San Luis Police Department is asking for the community's help in maintaining and improving their K9 unit.

San Luis Police Department K9 Sergeant Damien Miller said the department is constantly in need of equipment because of the wear and tear it puts on them.

“Dogs tend to outgrow their gear relatively quickly, so you'll need everything from leashes to bike sleeves and even treat toys,” Miller says.

Sergeant Miller explains that because of the state's proximity to the border, a large portion of the budget is dedicated to the police dog program, but some of the items needed are not always covered by the budget.

“We're always training, especially the police dog unit,” Miller said. “The more equipment we have, the better for the dogs.”

Currently, the San Luis Police Department has three police dogs on its roster, and Miller said the dogs are dual purpose, meaning they can arrest people and find drugs.

These dogs are trained using real drugs and bite suits seized from the streets so that they can catch criminals on the run.

Sergeant Miller says it takes about four months to train these dogs for the field, but they are constantly undergoing different types of training.

“The dogs are certified but will continue to train at least eight hours a week until they are retired,” Miller said.

If you would like to support the San Luis Police Department's K9 unit, residents can donate to their local police department's K9 Ops.