K-9 Program

Officer: Ryan Sullivan

K9: Dolly

Officer Ryan Sullivan is a Sonoma County native and has worked for the Cotati Police Department since June of 2019.  He is the recipient of multiple awards related to DUI enforcement and the recovery of stolen vehicles.  Officer Sullivan is an EMT, avid outdoorsman, enjoys raising animals and is passionate about the use of working dogs.

Dolly was born on January 8, 2023.  She is a purebred bloodhound and serves as a scent discriminate man-tracker.  Dolly is trained to find missing/lost persons and fleeing suspects.

Dolly is a valuable resource available to allied agencies for locating at risk members of the community.  Statistics from The Alzheimer’s Association state that approximately 60% (3 in 5) of patients with dementia will wander without notice.  Per the National Autism Association, nearly half of children with Autism are at risk of wandering.

Every person has their own unique scent.  Once presented with a scent article from a subject, Dolly is trained to find that specific person by following a trail of their scent.  Officer Sullivan’s job is to watch Dolly’s body language to ensure she stays on track. 

The K9 team practices weekly using various scenarios, locations and terrain types.  Dolly enjoys receiving her favorite squeak toy for a job well done.  

FUNDRAISING

Funds donated to the Police Department's K-9 Program are used solely to cover expenses associated with maintaining our program. Corporate and Business Sponsors are always welcome! All of your donations are Tax Deductible. The Tax I.D. Number is 94-1564868

Thank you in advance for your support! Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at 707-792-4611.