K-9 heroes

In 2004 Marshia Morton approached the Scott County Emergency Management Department about forming a K-9 Search and Rescue unit. Morton's bold idea has resulted in a 12-member volunteer unit, the only unit of its kind between St. Louis and Memphis.

The unit's members and dogs -- who regularly participate in training opportunities -- provide a needed service. While the end result is often not a happy one, the members' dedication has brought closure for many families.

The unit -- only compensated for expenses, and many times not even that -- has been called away as far as South Carolina to search for a woman who went missing during spring break, as well as during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Our Cape Girardeau and Jackson police departments' K-9 officers are also a major asset to the area. Thanks in part to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, the Cape Girardeau Kiwanis Club, area schools, local businesses and the "Pay for the Pups" project -- headed by the Southeast Missourian's Cheryl Ellis -- the department was able to purchase two German shepherds in 2009, K-9 officers Reno and Schupo. The two dogs replaced former K-9 officers Bolo and Toben, both who were retired the same year. The Jackson Police Department's K-9 officer is a 4-year-old shepherd named Stryker. Stryker has been with the department for nearly three years.

Many of us are dog lovers, but sometimes our four-legged friends are more than a pet. These heroic animals, along with their handlers, provide needed services for our area and beyond. And for their service, we're grateful.