Meet the K9s of the Utah State University Police Department

K9 Zoomer

English Labrador Retriever

K9 Zoomer is USUPD’s certified explosives detection K9, partnered with Lieutenant Scott Murray. Zoomer is trained to detect a wide range of explosive material and supports the safety of the university through proactive security sweeps, threat response, and presence at large-scale campus events. Calm, focused, and highly disciplined, Zoomer is a trusted asset in maintaining a secure campus environment.

Primary Services & Uses

• Pre-event venue sweeps 
• Bomb threat and suspicious package response
• Dignitary protection and major event support
• Public K9 demonstrations and campus safety education
• Countywide resource for other agencies

Fun Fact: Zoomer enjoys a good game of fetch with tennis balls and relaxes in the shade with his handler after a shift. He might just like Aggie Ice Cream too!

K9 Sage

English Labrador Retriever

K9 Sage is USUPD’s certified crisis response and community outreach K9. Having achieved AKC and therapy certifications, she is paired with Officer Shane Nebeker. Sage plays a vital role in supporting student wellness, crisis response, and relationship-building across campus. Her calm and friendly presence helps ease stress, provides comfort during difficult moments, and promotes the department’s approachable and service-minded culture.

Primary Services & Uses

• Therapy and emotional support during crisis or trauma
• Mental health and suicide prevention advocacy
• Classroom visits, wellness events, and outreach programs
• Victim support and community trust-building
• Appearances at university events and student engagement initiatives

Fun Fact: Sage appeared on campus at 8 weeks old and has been on patrol ever since. She loves treats, chasing frisbees, belly rubs, and napping in her and Officer Nebeker’s patrol car in between calls.

K9 Wolverine

Belgian Malinois

Wolverine is partnered with Detective Mitch Blackham, an experienced K9 handler with a long history of working with tracking, narcotics, and explosives detection dogs across multiple agencies.

Highly disciplined and focused, Wolverine is trained to detect a wide range of explosive materials. He supports campus safety through proactive security sweeps, threat response, and presence at large-scale university events. His calm demeanor and sharp training make him a trusted asset in maintaining a secure campus environment.

Primary Services & Uses

• Pre-event venue sweeps
• Bomb threat and suspicious package response
• Dignitary protection and major event support
• Public K9 demonstrations and campus safety education
• Serving as a countywide resource for partner agencies

Fun Fact: Wolverine loves his Kong toy — and sometimes only gives it up so he can play with a second one!