Dothan, Ala.– (WDNews) – Police K9s in Alabama can now receive emergency medical care in the field, thanks to a new law signed by Governor Kay Ivey.
The
Lakyn Canine Act
, also known as House Bill 366, was sponsored by State Rep. Rick Rehm of Dothan and officially took effect in May. It gives EMS personnel the legal green light to treat and transport injured police dogs—something they were previously barred from doing due to liability concerns.
Under the new law, first responders are now allowed to provide emergency care and use ambulances or helicopters to take wounded K9s to veterinary facilities when time is critical.
Supporters say this law brings long-overdue protection to K9s serving in law enforcement. Henry County Sheriff Eric Blankenship and Rep. Rehm both highlighted the fact that, until now, EMS crews couldn’t legally help K9s—even when their lives were on the line.
“This legislation ensures our K9 officers get the same chance at life-saving care as the officers they serve beside,” Rehm said.
The law is named in honor of Lakyn, a police K9 whose story helped push the bill forward.
