HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WETM) – For the 10th year, a “Paws for Laws” fundraiser will be held this summer to support the New York State Police K-9 Unit at Troop E in Horseheads. The event on May 18th will run from noon to 6 p.m. at the Horseheads Elks Lodge on 6 Prospect Hill Road.
The fundraiser will include K-9 demonstrations, live auctions, raffles and a chicken barbecue. The band “Blue Eyed Soul” will be playing from 2-6 p.m. Admission to the event is $15, or $10 with a bag of dog or cat food.
Renee Chalk says an idea in her backyard a decade ago has grown into an event that raises thousands of dollars every year.
“This actually started in my backyard. I just invited friends over and I did an auction. I hired a DJ. People had to pay $5 to get in. We had a bidding stick which was made out of tongue depressors and paper. At that year, I just bought a bulletproof vest for the dog. Now I’ve upgraded obviously, and we purchase dogs for them.”
Chalk says New York State pays for most of the cost of buying a new K-9. The price can range from $9,000 to $15,000 depending on the breed and level of training.
“So, New York State allocates X number of dollars each year for dogs,” said Chalk. “New York State will pay for all of the dog’s food, medical bills, and will provide collar and leashes. But it’s up to the officer to provide toys, bedding, bulletproof vests, and all of that stuff. If the officer chooses to have a better trained, more qualified dog, the difference from what New York State has set aside comes out of the officers pocket.”
Chalk says a bulletproof can cost several thousand dollars and is not meant to last for the dog’s lifetime.
“The vest itself can range anywhere from 3200 and up, but each vast has to be form-fitted per dog, and that can’t be passed down to another dog if the older dog retires or anything like that,” Chalk added. “And the filling inside the vest only lasts up to three years. Because when the dog moves, everything inside moves in that vest, so eventually the vest has to be replaced as well.”
Chalk says her live auctions are known for featuring big ticket items that are donated. She also involves local businesses who want to participate.
“This year. I’ve actually incorporated bronze, silver and gold tables for businesses where they can purchase the table to attend will get free admissions. They’ll get free raffle tickets and stuff like that depending upon which level that they purchase.”
“What drives you to do this? Why is it important for people to get involved in this fundraiser?” asked reporter Nick Dubina.
“My own thought is, if men and women are willing to put on a uniform every day and go out and risk their lives to protect strangers like you and I, the least I can do is give back to them,” Chalk said.
If you would like to donate or get involved, you can reach out to Renee Chalk at 607-426-7221. You can also email: reneechalk@icloud.com
Checks can also be mailed to: Renee Chalk 1218 W Water St Elmira, NY 14905. Please make checks payable to NYS POLICE K9 DIV TROOP E.
