The Marion Fire Department has been awarded a $3,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to support its K9 Program for arson investigation.
The Petco Foundation investment will help with the cost of yearly recertification fees, dog food, and daily additives that MFD’s arson dog, Jersey, receives to help prevent heat exhaustion and to also provide crucial vitamins.
“The Marion Fire Department K9 Team is so grateful for the Petco Foundation’s generosity,” said Fire Prevention Officer and K9 Handler, Brandon Eckstein. “The grant will help keep Jersey healthy and continue to serve the surrounding area with an outstanding canine that has been a huge benefit in assisting fire investigators with fire scenes.”
The grant was made possible through the Petco Foundation’s annual “Helping Heroes” campaign. Each October, Petco customers are invited to donate online and in Petco stores across the country to support the life-changing work of service, therapy and working animals.
Due to the Marion Fire Department’s K9 Program, MFD has had the opportunity to assist local, state, and federal agencies with fire scenes throughout the state. Jersey has been able to assist with ruling fire scenes as incendiary and to help bring those responsible to justice.
