Courtesy Photo/GBC Police 
K-9 Aygo is in the spotlight this week as he sits down for an interview to discuss his position with Gun Barrel City Police Department and his role in the community. 

GUN BARREL CITY–As part of Gun Barrel City’s “meet the staff” introductions, we shine the spotlight to K-9 Aygo. Aygo is a four-legged officer who has served Gun Barrel City since November 2023 with a wagging tail and fierce snout.  
Aygo’s role is to serve in the Gun Barrel City K-9 unit. He is dual trained in patrol and narcotics detection and assists in tracking, article searches, area searches, building searches and handler protection. He is certified by two nationally recognized programs—and working on his third certification in May. Aygo has been deployed 831 times, including 123 narcotics searches and he’s located 419 suspects. Aygo has also helped to seize 14.6 kilos of Marijuana, 582.5 kilos of Methamphetamines, 343 grams of Cocaine, 17.3 grams of Heroin, 29 grams of Ecstasy, and 34 key items of evidence. 
Aygo “says” his favorite part about serving the residents of Gun Barrel City is riding around town and enjoying the beautiful views, plus finding bad guys and illegal narcotics to keep this city safe. He also says that the moments that bring him the most joy and fulfillment are when he can have community time and play hide-and-seek with his handler. “Whether I’m tracking down someone hiding in the woods or sniffing out contraband in vehicles, the best part is when I succeed—and I get my toy as a reward,” says Aygo. 
Aygo says the police department has inspired him to make a positive impact in the community because they put up with his messy drool, Kong-toy obsession and even the pestering when he’s overdue for playtime. “If they can stay positive through all that, I can too-even on busy days,” says Aygo. 
Aygo thinks that Walmart and Petsense deserve more recognition because they have the best bones and toy selection for the pets of Gun Barrel City. He also says that pet adoptions and spay/neuter events are essential for strengthening connections among residents. “They help control the stray population, which makes everyone safer including me,” says Aygo. 
Thank you for your service, K-9 Aygo, hopefully you have lots of belly rubs and Kong toys heading your way.