CHOMP welcomes two K-9 teams to security staff

The Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula is beefing up its security staff with the help of man’s best friend. Security officials say they are the first hospital in the area to utilize K-9 teams.

Tarac is a three-year-old Belgian Malinois. His handler, Sherwin Fernandez describes him as playful and intelligent. Hugo is a four-year-old German shepherd that’s partnered with Kimilyn Lab. He is described as stoic and motivated. Since late February, the two dogs have been getting familiarized with the grounds of CHOMP.

A 2014 study by the International Healthcare Security Safety Foundation found the risk of violence was lower in hospitals with K-9 units, compared to those without. While there hasn’t been a particular incident that has sparked the addition but K-9 teams are a growing trend, with hospitals in Santa Barbara, San Diego, Arizona and Utah utilizing K9’s. Security officials say they want to be proactive in case anything were to happen.

Tarac and Hugo were the pick of the litter and both have had extensive training with their handlers in Southern California. They add a new step of protection, sniffing out potential trouble in and out of the hospital.

“Hugo is actually trained for the hospital to do patrol but he can actually do bite work, he does obedience, he does agility and he’s also certified K-9 for Schutzhund title in Germany,” Lam said.

If needed, they can jump into action and protect staff and patients. But there are some places they won’t go, like operating rooms and the ICU. They do have a rest area near the emergency department, where they take breaks during their shift.

Security officials say the response from the public and hospital staff has been positive.

“First reaction is they want to come pet the dog, and I think that’s one of the good things about having this program,” Fernandez said. “Both dogs are very socialized and they are both very well-behaved.”

The K-9 teams will work primarily at the hospital, with occasional visits to offsite facilities. Security officials say if anyone comes across Hugo or Tarac at CHOMP, to remember they are working dogs, not pets or therapy animals. If someone wants to pet them, ask the handler permission first before approaching.