Please Welcome K-9 Higgenz #343
Please welcome K-9 “Higgenz” to our Project K-9 Hero Pack as our 343rd Program Member. Higgenz served as an Agricultural Commodities Detection K-9 with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for six years.
K-9 Higgenz's specialized training allowed him to detect agricultural materials in a variety of settings, such as boxes, pallets, and trucks at commercial shipping facilities throughout the state. His ability to work on moving conveyor belts further demonstrates his adaptability and precision in demanding environments.
K-9 Higgenz has been a remarkable asset in protecting Florida’s agricultural resources and economy. Throughout his career, Higgenz has achieved over 10,000 finds, including many that were outside of regulation, containing invasive plant pests and diseases. These finds have been vital in preventing the introduction of harmful threats to the environment and safeguarding agricultural industries.
Beyond his fieldwork, Higgenz has played a pivotal role in educating the community about environmental protection and the importance of safeguarding our economy. Through outreach events at schools and across the state, he has inspired countless individuals with his hard work and gentle temperament, representing FDACS and the USDA with pride.
K-9 Higgenz was medically retired on June 27th for health reasons that have severely impacted his performance and overall well-being. He has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, which causes joint pain and mobility challenges, as well as anemia, leading to reduced energy levels and endurance. Recent tests have also suggested potential kidney dysfunction, as indicated by difficulty concentrating urine. All of these costs now become the responsibility of his Handler, who is an actively serving as an Environmental Inspector with the State of Florida.
Due to his very special medical needs, and the hundreds of dollars a month those would be placing on his Handler and family, we are placing K-9 Higgenz into our program so we can cover all future office visits, medications, and surgeries at 100%, for the rest of his life.
Please take a moment to welcome K-9 Higgenz to the PK9H Pack as our very first Agricultural Commodities Detection K-9 in the history of our program.
Our Medical Fund will help ensure that we always have a place to stay for Heroes like Higgenz. Please donate today to continue supporting our life-saving abilities.
