Three new law enforcement K9 teams officially joined the ranks protecting Ohio’s public lands during a November 10 graduation ceremony at the Spring Valley Education Center, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources announced.
The ceremony recognized handlers and canine partners from the ODNR Divisions of Parks and Watercraft and Wildlife. These animals bring specialized tracking and detection skills to state parks, forests, and waterways.
“ODNR’s K9 program reflects our commitment to providing officers with the tools they need to keep people safe and protect Ohio’s incredible natural spaces,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said according to ohiodnr.gov. “These K9 teams bring specialized skills, unmatched dedication, and a deep bond with their handlers.”
Assignments Across State Parks and Wildlife Units
Natural Resources Officer D’Angelo Thigpen graduated alongside K9 Frank, a male chocolate Labrador Retriever. Thigpen joined ODNR in 2020 and was selected as a K9 handler in March 2026, operating out of Rocky Fork State Park to serve the Southwest Unit C region.
K9 Frank was purchased from Tar Heel K9 in Sanford, North Carolina. Funding came from donations by Friends of Ohio K9 and Little Blessings, while AMVETS Post 61 supplied additional gear including collars, leashes, harnesses, and first aid supplies.
“These K9 teams provide invaluable support in search operations, evidence recovery, and public outreach,” Division of Parks and Watercraft Chief Glen Cobb stated.
State Wildlife Officer Michele Butler, assigned to Erie County, graduated with K9 River, a male black Labrador Retriever purchased from Five T K9 Enterprises. Butler joined ODNR in 2018 and began field service in 2019.
K9 Gar Joins Gus Kiebel to Protect Ohio Wildlife
State Wildlife Officer Gus Kiebel graduated with K9 Gar, a male yellow Labrador Retriever. Kiebel has served Ohio’s wildlife community since 2012 and is currently assigned to Adams County. Support for K9 Gar came from the Safari Club International Southwest Ohio Chapter and the Karr Aanestad K9 Foundation Fund.
“K9 River and K9 Gar will be extraordinary assets to wildlife officers conducting investigations, recovering evidence, and strengthening wildlife protection across Ohio,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker.
The agency utilizes these canine units across diverse environments ranging from campgrounds and lakes to forests and trail systems. Their operational scope covers search and rescue missions, locating missing persons, evidence detection, and supporting investigations throughout the state.
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