What It’s Like to Be the ‘Mom’ of a Police K9 Dog
Meet the 'mother' of one of these amazing dogs, who is also the wife of his handler.
One day recently I was having a conversation with Caryn Aretino, who happens to be the wife of Monmouth County Sheriffs K9 Officer J. Aretino and 'mom' of K9 Ari.
K9 Ari is a 10-year old German Shepherd. Caryn and J have had him since he was only a year old. Ari lives with the family full time. "When he is home he is the sweetest Momma's boy who loves to play with his fur brothers," says Caryn, "And when he is on the streets working I’m told he’s not always the nicest."
Ari's job is narcotics patrol and he is cross-trained in SWAT. Training was 26 intense weeks of just J and Ari learning about each other and their job.
"I am looking forward to the day that both J and Ari can retire," Caryn says. Most K9s work until they are between the ages of 9 and12, depending on their health.
I would also like to say thank you not only to them, but to everyone who is raising, nurturing, and partnering with a police officer K9 dog both at the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office and in every municipality that is lucky enough to have K9s. It takes a special kind of heart and mental attitude to be able to do such a thing. I know without a doubt it keeps our communities safer.
Also, in case you haven't seen this post yet, meet this precious puppy being trained to be a K9 at the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office -- CLICK HERE for more adorableness!