This week, we were honored to host a very special guest from the Columbia Police Department (CPD) K-9 Unit: Lance Corporal Rares Ungureanu and his K9 partner, a three-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd named Hutch. Their conversation offered a rare glimpse into the intense training, deep bond, and critical work that Columbia’s police dogs perform every day.

Meet the CPD K-9 Unit

The CPD K-9 Unit is a highly specialized team, currently comprising 11 dogs, soon to be 12. While they have three single-purpose labs dedicated to explosives or narcotics detection, the rest of the team consists of Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, and German Shepherds.

Hutch is a full patrol and narcotics dog, meaning he’s a true multi-talented unit trained for:

• Criminal Apprehension

• Narcotics Sniffs

• Article Searches (finding discarded evidence)

Born in Holland, Hutch is a full-fledged working dog, but Officer Ungureanu describes him as one of the most laid-back dogs on the team. He spends his drive time sleeping, only rising to attention when his handler gets out of the car.

The Bond of the Badge: Training and Trust

For Officer Ungureanu, joining the K-9 unit was a long-term goal. He underwent rigorous training, spending four weeks in Tennessee to bond with and train Hutch. Back home, the duo completed over 400 hours of training before certification.

The training doesn’t stop there. The team maintains its state certification through a minimum of 16 hours of training every single month. This constant practice is what allows the dogs to transition seamlessly into high-stress situations, relying on muscle memory and trust in their handler.

“He knows that I’m taking care of him… and then in return, he makes sure that I’m taking care of.”

That profound trust paid off on their very first article search on New Year’s Eve. After a shooting, Officer Ungureanu deployed Hutch into a field, where the dog successfully located and alerted to the presence of a discarded gun—a mission-accomplished moment for the new team.

From Slick Floors to Suspect Tracks

Officer Ungureanu shared a unique insight into how they prepare the dogs for the chaos of police work. For example, Hutch initially disliked walking on slippery floors. The solution? Taking him to a quiet Walmart to practice walking on the slick surfaces, rewarding him with a toy for every successful short distance covered. This training helps them overcome minor fears so they can focus on the job when the stakes are high.

When tracking or apprehending, the dogs are hyper-focused on the handler’s command. Officer Ungureanu notes that even in dangerous situations, Hutch has never hesitated.

K-9s in the Community

While working dogs are not pets, the K-9 Unit is a highly visible and beloved part of the Columbia community. The team participates in numerous demonstrations for schools, churches, and community events, often showcasing their bite work—a favorite for the kids!

They do have a few single-purpose labs, such as Charlie and Harvey, who are much more mellow and enjoy public attention, allowing the unit to interact more directly with residents. The team also trains in different neighborhoods to both deter criminal activity and remain approachable to the public, always willing to answer questions about their incredible partners.

The Most Important Message

Officer Ungureanu’s most critical message to the public is simple and vital: Always listen to the K-9 handler.

These dogs are trained to protect, and while they may be beautiful animals, their primary duty is safety and apprehension. If you see a working K-9, give them space and allow them and their handler to do their job without distraction.

Life After the Badge

What happens when a canine hero is ready to retire? Officer Ungureanu confirmed that all K-9 handlers have the opportunity to take their dogs home. Without hesitation, he stated that Hutch is a part of the family and will retire to a life of rest, running, and quiet companionship.

Supporting Columbia’s Heroes

We are grateful to Lance Corporal Ungureanu and Hutch for their service to the Columbia community. Their dedication ensures our city remains safe.

CVETS is proud to provide free emergency and specialty veterinary care to local law enforcement working dogs injured in the line of duty. This new program reflects CVETS’ deep appreciation for the service and sacrifice these dogs make to protect and support our communities.

From detecting threats to comforting victims and aiding in search and rescue missions, working dogs are an essential part of public safety, and CVETS is honored to give back meaningfully. “These dogs put their lives on the line every day, and they deserve the very best care in return,” said Dr. Mike Schlicksup, cofounder of CVETS. “Offering this care at no cost is a small gesture compared to the loyalty and service they provide.” “This is about more than just medicine — it’s about gratitude,” added Dr. Tracy Schlicksup, cofounder of CVETS. “These animals are heroes, and we’re proud to stand behind them and the teams they serve with.”

As part of this initiative, CVETS will cover the full cost of emergency and specialty services for actively working dogs in local law enforcement who have been injured in the line of duty. “CVETS has been there for our K9s in the most critical times. They have provided for the medical needs of our K9s without hesitation. They really do care!” – Sheriff Leon Lott

CVETS remains committed to supporting not just pets and their families, but also the greater community. This initiative furthers that mission by ensuring those who serve  -both human and canine — have access to the highest level of veterinary care when they need it most.

To learn more about the incredible work CVETS does in supporting pets across Columbia, including emergency and specialty services, visit CVETS.net

You can keep up with the CPD K-9 Unit and find out about upcoming demonstrations by following the Columbia Police Department on Twitter or calling the front desk.