A new non-profit organization is looking to establish a volunteer service for K-9 EMS services in an eight-country region, including Carroll, Sac, and Crawford Counties. Western Iowa EMS K9 Association is a 501(c)3 that has been raising funding to provide a dog trained in search and rescue techniques to assist local emergency services in numerous situations. The non-profit was created by Stephanie Renze of Auburn and Larry Folk of Battle Creek. Folk, who has been in an EMS role for over 35 years, will be the handler of the K9 and says that after the recent severe weather in 2024, this service would benefit the region.
The association announced Thursday the purchase of K9 Ivy, who will soon be transported from Holland through the Connected-Canine program. Before coming to Iowa, Ivy will receive training in Kentucky and additional training through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Folk says she will first be trained to serve in five different disciplines.
Since every dog is different when it comes to training, Folk was unable to give a specific timeframe for when Ivy would join the Western Iowa K-9 EMS Association. He says to watch the group’s Facebook page to stay up-to-date on the journey and Ivy’s arrival after she completes training.
Those interested in donating can use the contact points included below to contribute to the cause and a link to the association’s Facebook page to stay updated on new information related to the program.
Mail donations to:
Western Iowa K9 Association
271 Mary Street
Auburn, IA 51433
or drop off at any UBI Branch Office.
