(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Sheriff's Department is looking to add a K-9 to the department, but needs help from the public to raise the necessary funds.  

In a social media post, the department says they need to raise $8,000 to certify the handler and Sergio, an 1 ½ year-old Dutch Shepard.

Sergio would assist the department with sniffing for narcotics and tracking.

If the dog is brought on board, Deputy Sheriff Nick Hilderbrand will be his handler. The Doniphan County Sheriff Department hasn't had a K-9 in several years.

Deputy Sheriff Jared Ratzlaff said the department didn’t budget for a K-9 for this year partly because there wasn’t an officer interested in having a K-9 at the time. But when Hilderbrand joined the department they began exploring the idea.

Ratzlaff said that the department is working on a social media campaign and making online donations an option.

Those wanting to learn more about Sergio and how they can help can visit the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page.