(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Department is seeking sponsors for the K9 unit.

The Sheriff's Office is in the process of purchasing a second fully trained K9. This K9 will be prominent in the schools in Richardson County and will aid in removing drug problems in the County. The dog will also be trained in tracking and could assist in searches for lost children or an elderly person.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Department has emphasized stopping the drug problem in Richardson County over the past three-and-a-half years, aided greatly by the use of the current K9 Valor who has been on duty since 2021.

Any donations, large or small, personal or business will be a huge help in the community. As of last week approximately $1,100 has been raised toward the cost of purchasing the K9, attending training for the Deputy who will serve as the handler and the costs associated with having a K9 such as shelter and food. Cost estimates for funding the K9 program are in the range of $9,500 - $12 thousand.

Anyone wishing to donate toward the K9 program can send a check to the Law Enforcement Center or drop it off at the office.

Checks should be made out to the Richardson County Treasurer, with K9 Fund in the memo.