Buster is a 2 1/2 year old Dutch Shepherd handled by Corporal Chad Poortinga, a 10 year veteran with the SO. "I have always wanted to be a K9 handler" said Portinga. Explaining how its more than just coming to work and working with a dog, the dog is part of his family. He tells his young children that Buster is a "smelly dog. My kids love that."
When the K9 program, which had ceased to exist 14 years ago, began gaining momentum with the help of the Friends of the Calaveras Sheriff's Office (FOCSO) in late 2012, many interested individuals came forward, yet Portinga was chosen for the job.
"Chad" is one of those officers "that will go over the top." Said Sgt Eberhardt.
"It takes the right person to do this job" said Sheriff Kuntz, "it is a huge commitment.".
The first step was finding the right kind of dog. This where Weiss Hauzahn professional canine trainers in Sonora came into the picture donating a trained dog to the program. Trained up to the point where it needed a handler to imprint on to continue with the more extensive 6 month training.
Buster will be used for interdiction on the Highway, probation searches, school locker searches, traffic stops and more. Buster was trained on ladders, to jump 7' fences, jump into windows, crawl through tunnels, as well as hit on a variety of narcotics and much more. "Though he will continue to train throughout his career." Said CPL Portinga.
Prior to Buster the SO would use CDC canines "at least once weekly for K9 calls." Said Sgt Eberhardt. "Ideally I would like to see the Department have one K9 per shift."
FOCSO founding members Candace Keesey of Valley Springs and Vip Hale of Glencoe, were proud to see their fundraising dollars at work. Though this is not the only item the group has raised funds for, the group has helped in the past and plan to help in the future. "We have a great working relationship with the department." Said Candace.
FOCSO provided 100% funding for the purchase, training, and equipment needed for the program. Friends of the Sheriff have also pledged to continue their support to the program by assisting with monthly and yearly financial needs of the canine team.
For more information on the FOCSO visit the following link:
https://www.friendsofthecalaverassheriffsoffice.org/Home.html
or visit their Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfTheCalaverasSheriffsOffice