The Canine Program at the Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office holds significant importance for various reasons. Canines are valuable assets in law enforcement, providing essential support in tasks such as tracking suspects, detecting narcotics, searching for missing persons, and apprehending criminals. Their exceptional sense of smell, agility, and loyalty make them indispensable partners for deputies, enhancing their effectiveness in various law enforcement operations.

The presence of canines often serves as a deterrent to criminal activity, as their mere presence can deter suspects from resisting arrest or fleeing the scene. Moreover, canines can also facilitate positive community engagement, as they participate in demonstrations, public events, and educational programs, fostering trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community.

The Canine Program at the Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office plays a vital role in enhancing public safety, supporting law enforcement operations, and strengthening community relationships.

About our Canines

Meet Rosco

The Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue canine, “Rosco”, is a three-year-old Bloodhound. 

Bloodhounds have an exceptional sense of smell that allows them to detect human scent over vast distances and in challenging environments. 

Rosco and his handler undergo rigorous training honing in those skills making them indispensable when it's time to be activated to locate a missing person. 

Rosco’s handler/partner is Master Deputy Shane Bollinger, who has just over nine years of law enforcement experience and holds certifications as a canine trainer.

The Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office newest canine, “Axel”, is a two-year-old German Short-Haired Pointer.

Upon completion of his training, he will be trained on the detection of illicit narcotics to include Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Heroin, and MDMA.

Axel received his training at the Shallow Creek Kennels in Pennsylvania and will be a single purpose canine.

Axel’s handler and partner is Deputy Christopher Wallace, who has just over eight years of law enforcement experience and holds certifications as a canine trainer.