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Dozer, the Grand Rapids Police K9, was involved in a serious crash in 2022. He sustained significant injuries and was rushed to the hospital.
Dozer's handler, Officer Mark Lindstrand, was also injured in the crash. Fortunately, both Dozer and Officer Lindstrand received medical attention and are recovering.
Dozer has been a member of the Grand Rapids Police Department's K9 unit since 2018. He was trained to detect narcotics and track suspects.
The K9 unit is an essential part of the Grand Rapids Police Department's crime-fighting efforts.
Recommended read: K9 Police Officer
K-9 Dozer's Crash
Dozer, a Grand Rapids police dog, was seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash on August 4.
The crash occurred when a Grand Rapids police cruiser, with Dozer inside, was struck by an SUV traveling at 75-80 mph.
The officer driving the cruiser was pinned in and had to be extricated by GRFD responders, but he wasn't injured.
Dozer was pushed out of the cruiser and suffered serious injuries, including paralysis in his hind legs.
Worth a look: Grand Rapids Dog Boarding
The driver of the offending vehicle fled the scene on foot and hasn't been located.
The police department is still searching for an early-2010s Nissan Altima that arrived on the scene and took passengers from the offending vehicle away.
Dozer has been undergoing physical therapy to heal his injuries and has made great progress, with his spinal cord intact.
It's still uncertain whether Dozer will be able to return to work as a police K9.
Officer and K-9 Unit Injured in Crash
On August 4th, a serious crash occurred in Grand Rapids, Michigan, involving a Grand Rapids Police Department K-9 unit and a speeding vehicle.
The crash happened at Madison Avenue and Hall Street, and the K-9 unit, Dozer, suffered serious injuries to his rear legs and spinal column.
Dozer's handler, Officer Teddy Vanvliet, was also involved in the crash, but fortunately, he was not injured.
The vehicle that caused the crash fled the scene, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a community in shock.
Additional reading: What Is a K 9 Dog
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and police are still searching for the driver of the offending vehicle.
Dozer is currently undergoing physical therapy to recover from his injuries, and his progress has been a source of hope for the community.
The Grand Rapids Police Department has been keeping the public updated on Dozer's recovery, and it's clear that the community is rallying around the injured K-9 unit.
Dozer's handler, Officer Vanvliet, has been by his side throughout the recovery process, and it's clear that their bond is unbreakable.
The Grand Rapids Police Department has expressed gratitude to the community for their love and support during this challenging time.
Dozer's road to recovery has been long and arduous, but with time, patience, and the right treatment, he's making great progress.
The community has been sending Dozer get-well wishes, and his handler has been keeping everyone updated on his progress.
Dozer's injuries were so severe that he was temporarily paralyzed, but with the help of physical therapy, he's learning to walk again.
The Grand Rapids Police Department is still unsure if Dozer will return to active duty, but they're hopeful that he'll make a full recovery.
If Dozer does retire, he'll live with his handler, Officer Vanvliet, and the community will still be able to see him around town.
The community has been donating funds to support the purchase and training of new K-9 units, which is a testament to the importance of these dedicated animals in keeping our streets safe.
The Grand Rapids Police Department has expressed their gratitude to the community for their support, and it's clear that this is a community that truly cares about its law enforcement officers and their K-9 units.
GRPD K-9 Update
Dozer, the Grand Rapids Police Department K-9, was seriously injured in a crash on August 4, after a speeding vehicle hit a GRPD cruiser at Madison Avenue and Hall Street.
The crash caused serious injuries to Dozer's rear legs and a severe injury to his spinal column.
Dozer's handler, Officer Teddy Vanvliet, has been caring for him at home, where he continues to recover with the help of physical therapy, including time on the water, on a treadmill, and laser therapy.
Dozer's recovery process has been tough for both him and his handler, but they're getting by at home, with Dozer trying to adjust to spending more time indoors.
Whether or not Dozer returns to active duty remains to be seen, but his handler's love for him will never change.
A decision on his return to duty has not yet been made, and if Dozer is unable to return, he will be retired and a new K-9 will join the team.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Police K9 Handler
Frequently Asked Questions
Are K9 units expensive?
Yes, K9 units can be expensive, with costs ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 for a new K9 and its training. This significant investment is a crucial part of providing police dogs with the skills and equipment they need to stay safe on the job.
Sources
- https://www.wzzm13.com/article/news/local/grpd-k-9-dozer-recovering-well/69-fe83b044-9444-4bc2-a666-74fcad37bb00
- https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/grand-rapids/watch-handler-of-injured-grpd-k-9-shares-update-on-dogs-progress
- https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2023/10/grand-rapids-police-dog-hurt-in-crash-is-back-on-his-own-four-feet.html
- https://www.wcsg.org/news/local/8-4-23-grand-rapids-officer-and-k-9-unit-injured-in-crash/
- https://www.grmag.com/breaking/new-dogs-on-the-beat/
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