Washington Co. sheriff’s K-9 unit fundraiser set

The event’s proceeds will benefit “the paws that enforce the laws.”

On Valentine’s Day, the Washington County Sheriff’s Department will hold a fundraising event to support its K-9 unit.

The Puppy Love Dinner Dance will be take place Feb. 14 at Julian’s Banquet Hall, located at 78 W Maiden St. in Washington. Deputy Sheriff Kristie Salzman said proceeds from the event will go directly to the K-9 department.

“We say it’s to help support ‘the paws that enforce the laws,’” Salzman said. “These dogs, they’re just such an asset to have available.”

Doors will open at 5 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Tickets will be $30 per person and participants must be 21 and over.

Tickets can be purchased at the sheriff’s office at 95 W Beau St. in Washington, or participants can make other arrangements by calling the office at 724-228-6840.

Salzman said their K-9 unit aims to be self-sufficient, so they try to fundraise to maintain the program. They also take donations, and residents can reach out to their department if they’re interested.

“We’ve handled the cost of the dogs and everything they needed, as far as their equipment and their vetting bills, through donations and fundraising,” she said. “We try not to be a burden on the taxpayers. So that’s why we ask that if they want to support us, come to these events, so that way it’s a choice that they want to be a part of our dogs’ lives.”

Funds from the event will go to- ward deputy K-9s Obie, Myya, Sammi and Creed. Obie is retired, but Salzman said he’s still considered part of their family and was one of the first dogs in the program.

Sammi is a dual-purpose canine, which means she’s certified in bomb detection work and patrol duties. Creed is also a dual-purpose canine as a narcotics and patrol certified dog.

Myya is a facility dog that is used for therapeutic purposes in certain situations.

“There’ll be acoustic music in the beginning, and then a DJ in the evening, and there’ll be raffles and gift baskets, just to help us raise some money,” Salzman said.

The dinner will also have a cash bar. The sheriff’s department is looking for donations to help support the event.

Salzman said some of the dogs from their K-9 unit will make an appearance at the event. She said of the dogs, “There’ll be some sloppy kisses given out, no doubt, on Valentine’s Day. … So if you’re looking to come out and support a great cause and enjoy some great company with some four-legged partners.”