Alabama law authorizes emergency care, transport for police K-9s

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) — Alabama is providing more services for police K-9s throughout the state.

HB366 authorizes emergency medical services personnel to provide medical care and transportation to police dogs injured in the line of duty. 

The bill, also known as the “Lakyn Canine Act,” will ensure injured police K-9s receive the same emergency medical care and transportation as their human partners.

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Rick Rehm, R-Dothan, also allows K-9s to be transported by ambulance or helicopter to emergency veterinary care.

Additionally, the bill will protect emergency medical personnel from potential liability arising from offering critical medical care in good faith to a police dog.

“Police K-9s are more than working dogs; they’re loyal partners, fearless protectors and like family,” said Debbie Johnson, president and founder of K-9s United. “They charge into danger without hesitation to protect their communities, and they deserve the same urgent, life-saving care as any human officer. Passing this law is one of our proudest moments, and we are deeply grateful to Governor Ivey and Representative Rehm for standing with us to ensure Alabama’s K-9 heroes receive the care they’ve earned through their service and sacrifice.”

“The Laykn Canine Act honors our police K-9s and recognizes their vital role in protecting our communities with unwavering loyalty,” Rehm said. “By ensuring EMS personnel can provide emergency care without fear of liability, we’re closing a dangerous gap and guaranteeing these brave dogs get the same urgent attention any hero deserves. I’m grateful to K9s United for bringing this issue to light, and proud that we’ve delivered a meaningful solution that ensures we never leave our K-9s behind.”

The recent enactment of the new law isn’t so new. Florida also has a similar bill in place that was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2021. HB366 in the Alabama Legislature was signed into law May 14.