DEPARTMENT: Clinton Police Dept.
CERTIFIED IN: Patrol & Narcotics
BREED: German Shepherd
YEARS OF SERVICE: 2015-2023
FAVORITE TOY OR TREAT: Beef Jerky
NEW FOUND HOBBY IN RETIREMENT: Bird Watching – Only Barks at Squirrels and Pigeons

BIO:

K9 Sonny, born in 2014, began his career in late 2015 when he was assigned as a green, untrained dog to his handler. Together, they trained and certified through Superior K9 Services in both Patrol and Narcotics detection, forming a partnership that would span eight years of dedicated service.

Throughout their career, K9 Sonny and his handler earned certifications with multiple respected organizations, including the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association (CPWDA), the North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA), the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association (NNDDA), and the National Police Canine Association (NPCA). Their skill and commitment were recognized in 2020 when they were honored as the Narcotic Detection Team of the Year by CPWDA.

In addition to their operational achievements, the team took home the Best Handler award at the 2018 Western Connecticut Police K9 Challenge. After years of distinguished service, K9 Sonny officially retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and teamwork.

K9 Sonny is proudly recognized as the 10th dog accepted into the Harlows Heroes Foundation program.