DUAL-PURPOSE PATROL/NARCOTICS DETECTION K-9

From his first days on the force with the San Leandro Police Department, Kane showed extraordinary courage. On just his third day of patrol, Kane and his handler were involved in a critical Officer Involved Shooting (OIS)—a moment that would change both of their lives forever.

Kane’s handler shared, “I should have been killed, and it was through this shared experience that we found a way forward. While I was on leave, training with Kane became a form of regulation for me…” But the effects of the incident didn’t stop there, Kane also experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) symptoms and deep separation anxiety from his handler.

By 2023, both Kane and his partner were medically retired from law enforcement, bearing the invisible scars left by their shared trauma. Searching for a new purpose, Kane’s handler co-founded Runestone Ranch, a peer-based nonprofit retreat dedicated to supporting first responders.

Kane played a vital role in the creation of this mission. Runestone Ranch now offers education on PTSI, burnout, and boundaries to help to build resilience through regulation techniques and peer support.

As Kane’s handler puts it, “This whole journey has given me an insight that PTSI doesn’t only affect us but also our partners, whether they are human or canine. When they are better, we are better. The bond Kane and I share is a testament to resilience…”

 Runestone Ranch is currently hosting one-day courses focused on prevention, empowerment, and encouraging a cultural shift in departments, where asking for help becomes a sign of strength.

Project K-9 Hero recognizes the importance of treatment for mental health trauma for our K-9 heroes like Kane. They were honored to welcome them into their pack and will cover all his future treatments.