On July 6, Sheriff Edwards purchased new K9 - Diego, who will be working under the direction of Sgt. Tommy Ferrand.  Diego is Sgt. Ferrand’s second service dog replacing K9 Kazon who served the TPSO since 2005 and is now enjoying retirement. Diego was purchased from Cajun Law Dawg Kennels and is a Dutch Shepherd. Diego is just under three years old and has just officially certified in both narcotics detection and patrol work through the USPCA.  Diego will be asked to do numerous demonstrations throughout Tangipahoa Parish in his upcoming years of service. Sgt. Ferrand, an eleven year veteran with the sheriff’s office, will continue to work with and enhance Diego’s skills as a K9 deputy with the sheriff’s office.  

“Reliability in job performance is of paramount importance when it comes to my K9s and duties. The numerous amount of training hours my deputies spend on ongoing proficiency training ensures each dog will act and perform according to expectations and standards. I am proud to serve Tangipahoa Parish side by side with each one of my deputies and their K9 companions,” said Sheriff Edwards 

History on Dutch Shepherds:

The Dutch Shepherd, native to Holland, was originally a sheepdog, and was also used by Dutch farmers as a general-purpose farm dog. The Dutch Shepherd is a medium-sized, well-proportioned, well-muscled dog, with a powerful, well-balanced structure, an intelligent expression and a lively temperament. He is alert, devoted to his owner, obedient, and eager to please and oblige. He is a good guardian, is very faithful and reliable, undemanding, with plenty of stamina, is vigilant, active and is gifted with a typical shepherd temperament. He may be somewhat reserved and should be well socialized. The breed is very similar in coat types and physical characteristics, except for color, to the Belgian Shepherd Dog. Height range for males is from 22-1/2 to 24-1/2 inches. Height range for females is from 21-1/2 to 23-1/2 inches.