Requests for K-9 visits to events can be made through the K-9 email at umpdk9s@umass.edu.
Without a doubt two of the most popular Officers on campus are K9's Alec and Parker.
K9 “Alec” is a 5 year old male black Labrador Retriever. “Alec” was obtained for us by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshalls office in September of 2019 for the purpose of Explosives Detection. “Alec” was initially bred by and started training for the “Guiding Eyes of New York” program, but was found to have too high of a food drive for that program, but that drive is what makes him perfect in Explosives Detection! Alec and his handler, Officer Gerald “Jerry” Perkins attended the Fire Marshals Explosives Detection Academy for 3 months at the end of 2019 before becoming certified by the New England State Police Administrators Conference (NESPAC) in Explosives Detection.
“Alec” is an extremely social pup who loves being out meeting new friends. If you see him out and about either at events or just walking around, feel free to come up and give him a pat on the head or maybe even a belly rub! Just watch your sandwich!
You can learn more about “Alec” and stay up to date with all his activities by following him on Instagram @umpdk9alec!
K9 "Parker" comes to UMPD from Puppies Behind Bars where she spent her first 11 months in Fishkill Correctional Facility, Beacon NY. Parker spent those months learning a myriad of skills that would prepare her for her role as an explosive detection canine. After being selected by the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad & State Fire Marshalls Office, she was united with Ofc. Bonnayer to begin her new life with us here at Umass. K9 Parker and Ofc. Bonnayer completed MSP EK-9 class #14 along with three other K9 teams in June of 2020.As an EOD K9 Team, Parker and Ofc. Bonnayer have developed the skills to detect and locate a wide range of explosives. The team are also trained to detect firearms and/or ammunition that may have been used in crimes. The teams of EK-9 Alec and EK-9 Parker can be called anywhere in the state to provide service if a request is made but our primary function is keeping the students, staff and visitors of UM Amherst safe.
Parker is very friendly and loves to make new friends, we’re excited that people are returning to campus and look forward to meeting you. Please follow her on her Instagram page @umpdk9parker
