Torch, seen here, will soon travel to Ukraine and become a member of the public safety service there as the war with Russia continues. (Alberta K9)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

a meaningful way to help

Red Deer-area K9 training company donates public safety dog to Ukraine

Jun 27, 2023 | 5:06 PM

A Red Deer-based and Métis-owned company is providing help to Ukraine for its ongoing war with Russia.

Alberta K9 is partnering with Edmonton charity Firefighter Aid Ukraine (FAU) to coordinate the donation of a specially-trained Public Safety K9 to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS).

K9 ‘Torch’ is a three-year-old Belgian Malinois trained for public safety control, as well as detection of explosive materials, including land mines and unexploded ordinances, the company says.

“We wanted to find a meaningful way to support the citizens of Ukraine as they navigate the incomprehensible invasion of their country” says Matt Lapointe, co-owner of Alberta K9. “We have no doubt that the donation of K9 Torch will support the safety and protection of the Ukrainian public and members of its State Emergency Service.”

FAU is fundraising to cover travel expenses and to purchase critical safety equipment for Torch, such as a ballistic vest.

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Trainers with Alberta K9, along with representatives of Firefighter Aid Ukraine, will deliver Torch to Kyiv in the fall of 2023 and transition him to his new handler.

Alberta K9 notes that Torch is the littermate brother of K9 “Marshal”, an Ignitable Liquid Detection Canine with Edmonton Fire Rescue Services.

It estimates the donation value of Torch is about $25,000 CAD.

Donations to support the logistics and safety equipment required can be made to Firefighter Aid Ukraine through their website at firefighteraidukraine.com/donate.

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