Nationwide, Law Enforcement agencies struggle with understaffing and limited budgets; Oklahoma is no different. Of the 292 police departments and 77 sheriffs departments in the state, 90% are understaffed. Nationally, Oklahoma ranks in the bottom 20% of funding per capita on law enforcement spending. Shockingly, 22 (of 77) Sherriffs, in the state of Oklahoma can qualify for SNAP benefits just based on their salary alone.

A well trained and supported canine unit is one of the easier ways to stretch thin resources. A study conducted by the Pasco County Commissioners Board discovered that having a police service dog team respond to calls can reduce closer times as much 77% and on average they close calls for service 27% faster than regular patrol officers and deputies. Providing targeted training and resources for canine units will help better utilize resources in law enforcement.

Currently, 85% of Oklahoma departments have less than 60 sworn officers or deputies and half of those are less than 30. The Fund will target agencies with less than 60 sworn officers or deputies for full funding and less than 170 for 75% funding. That means that 97% of the agencies in the state will be eligible for direct unit funding for canines. There will be no requirement to attend the hosted training other than being a current canine handler or supervisor.