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Lowndes County Sheriff receives grant-funded K-9 medical kit

LOWNDES, Miss. — The Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office announced it has received a grant-funded Buddy Bag K-9 Medical Kit through Protection 4 Paws, providing its K-9 Unit with emergency equipment to treat injured police dogs in the field.

The office said the kit contains specialized medical supplies that allow handlers to deliver immediate care during the critical minutes after an injury while awaiting veterinary attention. The supplies also include equipment that can be used to aid deputies or civilians until emergency medical personnel arrive, the agency said.

The sheriff’s office noted its K-9 teams assist deputies by tracking suspects, locating missing persons, detecting illegal narcotics, recovering evidence and protecting officers during high-risk operations. Sheriff Eddie Hawkins said the dogs “are more than working dogs—they are members of our law enforcement family. They train alongside our deputies, face many of the same dangers, and are often the first to confront dangerous situations. This medical kit gives our handlers the ability to provide immediate care when every second matters. We sincerely appreciate Protection 4 Paws for investing in the safety of law enforcement K-9s across the country,” he said.

The office encouraged citizens and local businesses to support programs such as Protection 4 Paws, which it described as a nonprofit that provides lifesaving equipment to law enforcement K-9 teams. Those interested in contributing or learning more can visit Protection 4 Paws’ website, the sheriff’s office said. The agency said it remains committed to ensuring deputies and K-9 teams have the training, equipment and resources necessary to serve Lowndes County.