Michigan Hospital Adds Security Dogs to Boost Safety, Provide Comfort

University of Michigan Health-West has launched a K9 security program, introducing specially trained dogs and handlers who will enhance safety and bring comfort to patients, families, and staff. The new teams add another layer of protection while helping create a calm and welcoming environment for care.

The K9 teams include Derek Karcher and Tukka, Isaiah Sandretto and Cisa, and Austin Fine and Buzz. All three dogs are Belgian malinois–German shepherd mixes, bred in Europe and trained in Southwest Michigan before being paired with their handlers in August. The teams graduated Oct. 23 in Niles, Mich., after completing basic K9 handler school and earning national certification through the International Police Work Dog Association. Each team is certified in explosives detection, patrol work, and healthcare-specific service. All three also passed UM Health-West’s internal K9 standards test.

Violence in healthcare has risen across the country, impacting patients and caregivers. Healthcare workers are five times more likely to be injured on the job than those in other fields. UM Health-West’s new K9 program aims to reduce those risks by deterring disruptive behavior, helping to de-escalate tense situations, and supporting a safer environment for everyone. The dogs also bring comfort and connection for patients, visitors, and staff.

“These dogs are an extension of our mission to put patients first,” said Ronald Grifka, M.D., president of UM Health-West. “They bring security and reassurance, helping us maintain a safe and welcoming hospital environment.”

Gary Gorski, director of security at UM Health-West, said the teams are already making a positive impact: “Our K9s are highly trained and dedicated to protecting our hospital community. They help us prevent and respond to threats, and they connect with people in a way that builds trust and calm.”

The program is overseen by Gorski and Richard Prince, K9 program manager, and supported in part by a grant from the UM Health-West Foundation. UM Health-West joins Michigan Medicine, UM Health-Sparrow, and other health systems across the state that have introduced hospital-based K9 security programs.

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