K9 Leny receives specialized kennel, thanks to John Jones

By: 
Stephanie Taylor Ferriell, Print Editor
In support of law enforcement efforts to reduce drugs in Washington County, John Jones Automotive Group donated a new K9 kennel that will transport K9 Officer Leny.  
Sheriff Roger Newlon said the new kennel is state of the art and very impressive. It has special features that will ensure Leny’s safety.
Having a vehicle specialized for a K9 officer is essential for the dog’s health. Not only does the vehicle have to have the kennel with a flat surface for the dog to lay on, complete with a secure water bowl, it also has special windows and cooling system. 
Leny’s handler, Deputy Paul Ginkins, can click a special button on his service belt and a door to this vehicle will automatically open, allowing Leny to assist in the ongoing situation.  
Newlon said the kennel is much larger and safer than previous ones. “It takes up the whole back seat. The dog has a lot more room to move around in, but Paul still has plenty of storage space between the kennel and back of the vehicle.”
The kennel will alert Ginkins if conditions become too hot or cold inside the vehicle.
If for any reason the kennel gets too cold, an alarm will automatically cause the lights to flash and the horn to start honking notifying the officer to respond. During the summer if the vehicle gets too hot, the alarm will sound,  the rear windows will go down and a fan will come on to keep air circulating over Leny.
Leny and Ginkins have gone through intense training and will be used whenever law enforcement deems necessary. 
Newlon said he once again wants to express gratitude to the community for financially supporting the K9 acquisition.
The cost to acquire Leny, fly him to the state, have him picked up then transported for training out west, then trained with Ginkins totaled $13,000.
“The dog wouldn’t be possible without the community,” stressed Newlon. “The community came together really well.”
He cited East Washington and West Washington schools for their support. Leny’s kennel features decals from each school.
Newlon noted that Ginkins was invited by the Indiana State Police to participate in additional K9 training last summer. Not only did they benefit from the training, which was at no cost, but Ginkins made valuable contacts as well.
And Leny made a good showing.
“There were officers there who had had K9s for several years who were very impressed with Leny,” Newlon said. “They said this dog is very good.”

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