West St. Paul Police K9s Cecil and Bear in front of their handlers and vehicles.

K9 Walk at Thompson Park

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The West St. Paul Police Department is putting on a K9 Walk on September 10 to support their two dogs on the force, Cecil and Bear.

  • When: Sunday, September 10 from 9 a.m. to noon
  • What: 2-mile walk (dogs are welcome), silent auction, food, and games.
  • Where: Thompson Park
  • Registration: Sign up online, $40 individual/$50 family (includes T-shirt & walking tacos)

Why: “When you have dogs there comes expenses such as food, veterinary services, training, treats, toys, equipment, and so much more,” said Officer Nicole Murphy, the handler for Cecil.

A Few Questions With the K9 Handler

We asked Officer Murphy a few quick questions about working with a police dog.

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What’s it like working with a K9?

I currently have been working with Cecil for almost two years and it is by far the best job there is. I literally get to take my dog to work everyday. Don’t get me wrong, it is a lot of work and training. It is also the most rewarding and frustrating job around. But to be able to see him put in the work, learn and then do it in real life is so rewarding!! He knows when it is time to work and when it is time to be everyone’s friend!

How does the community react to Cecil?

When the community sees Cecil most love him! He hears how handsome and cute he is all the time! His favorite is when he gets all the pets!

How often do you have to take Cecil for a walk?

We don’t necessarily go for walks like you do with your normal pet. He gets exercise when we do track training or when we play ball with the chuck-it. We just recently got a donation that is helping us purchase a K9 treadmill though, which will be utilized for training and exercise.

You can support Officer Murphy and Cecil at the West St. Paul Police Department’s K9 Walk on September 10.

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