Project K-9 Hero Sponsors Two Retired K-9s from Flathead County Sheriff's Office

Project K-9 Hero has officially sponsored Vito and Audie, adding them to a list of over 400 retired K-9s the nonprofit has supported nationally. Jason Johnson, founder and CEO of Project K-9 Hero, emphasized the importance of providing care for these dogs, stating, "These K-9s put their lives on the line for us, protecting our communities, our schools, and our way of life."

Johnson established the nonprofit to ensure retired police and military working dogs receive essential support after their service. The organization assists with medical bills, rehabilitation, re-homing, prescriptions, food, and end-of-duty services.

Corporal George Minaglia from the Flathead County Sheriff's Office was approached by Johnson via social media to sponsor his retired K-9, Vito. Minaglia expressed his surprise at the outreach, saying, "I couldn't really believe that; now here we are." He noted the deep bond formed during their seven years of partnership, sharing, "You're with them every day; I spend more time with that dog than my family."

After Vito's service concluded, Minaglia adopted him, saying, "I get to keep Vito; he stays at home. He's with the family right now; he does a great job with them."

K-9 Audie was recognized alongside Vito at the event. Murdoch's, a local store, serves as a sponsor for the nonprofit and helps raise funds for retired K-9s across the nation.

Johnson aims to demonstrate to Flathead Valley donors that their contributions are making a significant impact locally, stating, "We want to show some of the local community that we're not just taking that money and spreading it around all over the nation; we're actually helping heroes here in Flathead County."