The Houston Police Department’s K-9 dog made its first public appearance Saturday.
Rooke, who is still being trained in Salem, spent about 30 minutes at a softball tournament at the Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Fairgrounds. Proceeds from the event, which included food and a silent auction, benefit a fund to purchase the animal.
A 2-year-old German Shepherd, Rooke played with several children and adults as tournament games continued behind him. His appearance was shortened due to the heat.
Rooke is a product of Jesse Monroe of Valkyrie Working Dogs. Houston police hope to take custody of the dog in the upcoming weeks. On Thursday, Chief Jim McNiell and Officer Brad Evans, who will be the dog’s handler, traveled to Salem to meet Rooke and see him in action.
Rooke will make another public appearance Saturday, July 13, during the police department’s 5K-9 at Emmett Kelly Park. He will be part of a K-9 demonstration at 9:30 a.m.
Houston police are raising $10,000 to purchase Rooke, who will be used as a narcotics dog.