Two new K-9s recently traveled from Holland to join the South Whitehall Township Police Department. They will be training until the end of October.

“Then, they will hit the streets,” Police Chief Glen Dorney explained.

Kyra, a 17-month-old Dutch Shepherd, specializes in explosive detection. Drax, a 19-month-old Belgian Malinois, is specifically trained for narcotics detection.

Both K-9s will also be used in patrol work, tracking and apprehension.

Their handlers, Officer Colin Beaumont with Kyra, and Officer Kevin Smith with Drax, were selected through an interview process and test runs with the trainer’s dog, Dorney said.

Kyra and Drax will fill positions vacated by Kimber and Cirrus who retired.

Doug Wendling, of Progressive Canines, Lehigh Township, will oversee the dogs’ training.

Dorney said Wendling did a great deal of research in selecting the canines for South Whitehall.

“He knows their bloodlines,” Dorney said. “They have to be good health-wise, have good drives, and take pride in obedience.

“They came from the same kennel.

Dorney said Kyra and Drax have so much drive, when they work, they think they’re playing.

The dogs have had some initial training - riding in a police car, being around the station, and learning to recognize the uniform.

“We’re getting them engaged,” Dorney said.

“They are under 2 years old and are very trainable.

“Socialization is a big thing. Both are friendly dogs with a lot of energy.

“We’ll get them introduced to the community.”

Beaumont and Smith take the dogs home with them at the end of their shifts.

South Whitehall commissioners approved the purchase of 8-foot by 10-foot kennels for Kyra and Drax at a combined cost of $5,450.

“The kennels will give them a secure area outdoors,” Dorney said.