The Rifle Police Department (RPD) is breaking tradition by introducing a rescue dog into its K-9 unit. Apollo, once a neglected and abandoned animal, has found a new purpose—serving and protecting the community alongside Corporal Kyle Green.
A Second Chance for Apollo
Most police dogs come from specialized breeders, trained from an early age for law enforcement. Apollo, however, had a rough start. Found chained and neglected, he was rescued by Uintah Animal Control and Shelter before catching the attention of RPD. Now, he’s on a mission to make Rifle a safer place.
Corporal Green, Apollo’s handler, couldn’t be more pleased with his new partner. “Training’s going very well. He’s eager to please me, and he’ll do pretty much anything I ask him to do,” said Green.
The Training Process
Apollo is currently undergoing rigorous training with Green, preparing him for real-world police work. Turning the process into a game has helped Apollo pick up commands quickly, making the learning experience enjoyable and effective.
- He is being trained to detect narcotics, aiding in drug enforcement efforts.
- He will assist in human trafficking cases, using his keen sense of smell to locate missing persons.
- His presence will provide additional security for officers during field operations.
Green and Apollo will begin an intensive three-week K-9 handler school in Grand Junction on March 2. This training will ensure Apollo meets the high standards required for law enforcement duties.
Impact on the Community
Apollo’s role goes beyond police work—he symbolizes resilience and the potential of shelter animals. His transition from a neglected dog to a protector of Rifle’s streets has resonated with residents, sparking discussions about animal rescue and rehabilitation.
RPD hopes Apollo’s success will encourage other departments to consider shelter dogs for service roles. His journey highlights that even the most overlooked animals can serve a greater purpose with the right guidance and care.
