ISP K-9s certified in new scent as ongoing effort to fight fentanyl

COEUR d’ALENE — All Idaho State Police drug-detection dogs are now certified to detect fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid driving a rise in overdoses across the country, according to ISP.

The final ISP K-9 completed its certification yesterday, a news release said, marking full statewide implementation of fentanyl detection training.

In addition to fentanyl, K-9s can detect methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana. Authorities said the new certification enhances ISP’s ability to intercept dangerous narcotics and protect Idaho communities.

ISP currently deploys nine K-9s statewide: seven drug-detection dogs and two explosive-detection dogs. The drug-detection K-9 teams assist troopers and partner agencies in locating illegal substances and keeping communities safe.

“These dogs are incredibly smart and can typically learn a new scent in less than a week,” ISP K-9 Handler Sgt. Cottrell said in a news release. “Being certified on this new odor only strengthens our efforts in the fight against illegal drugs.”

All ISP handlers carry Narcan in their vehicles, not only for themselves but also for their K-9 partners.