title: Use of K9 units in healthcare: a history.
abstract: The use of K9 units within healthcare facilities will continue to increase as the violence within healthcare increases. K9s are a wise investment and are cost-effective. K9 units deter and prevent crime and violence at facilities. The typical K9 will be utilized for eight to ten years. The research demonstrates that facilities that have deployed K9 units have seen a reduction in crime and violence. A well trained K9 can not only patrol the exterior of a healthcare facility but also the patient care and service areas. As more hospitals and healthcare facilities look at non-lethal weapons to protect their officers, staff and guests, the use of K9 within healthcare will continue to rise.
authors.forename: Paul M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Sarnese
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D015142:Baltimore; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004285:Dogs; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049674:History, 21st Century; D006769:Hospitals, General; D017751:Safety Management / Q000266:history*; D014754:Violence / Q000517:prevention & control*