News

K9 For a Day: New community program puts shelter dogs on patrol with police

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. — The New Smyrna Beach Police Department is launching a new program aimed at building relationships with the community and getting dogs adopted.

Officer Tanner Snow hit the streets Tuesday with his new K9 partner for the day, a three-year-old terrier mix named Apollo.

READ: Florida wildlife officials searching for solution after state reports 500+ manatee deaths

Through the new community engagement program known as “K9 for a day,” different officers will be paired with dogs from the Southeast Volusia Humane Society that are available for adoption.

GOOD BOY ALERT! K9 for a Day Apollo has been picked up by Officer Snow and the tandem is about to set off on patrol! Keep your eyes peeled for them throughout the city!

Posted by New Smyrna Beach Police Department on Wednesday, March 31, 2021

They’ll then go out through the city, meeting and interacting with residents.

“It just puts a face to the name,” Officer Snow says. “People see Officer Snow, they see the uniform, but now they know me as Tanner. I’m a local. I grew up here, so it’s just that interaction.”

READ: Volusia chair looks to allow county residents free beach driving access

The program has the added benefit of creating opportunities for the dogs to be adopted, which of course Apollo doesn’t seem to mind.

Anyone interested in adopting Apollo can contact the Southeast Volusia Humane Society at (386) 428-9860.