Our Story

In 2014 the Palmer Police Department in Massachusetts implemented their K-9 program and K-9 Buddy joined the department. The K-9 program was not part of the Police Departments annual budget. It relied on donations and fundraisers to remain active. Pictured here are David Oliveira and Jan Garabedian who held the Benefit for Buddy fundraisers. K9 Buddy was an exceptional police dog. K9 Buddy served the department for 6 distinguished years and passed away on April 1, 2022.

K-9 Buddy served the community proud. He was a dual purpose police dog who assisted with numerous motor vehicle searches, tracks for missing or wanted persons as well as searches for articles. He assisted cities and towns throughout Western Massachusetts with demonstrations, school searches and crowd control.

WHY WE EXIST

Throughout the years of fundraising, it was K9 Buddy that inspired Jan to continue her journey. She fell in love with him the moment she met him. Learning about the K9 program and how it impacted the communities that they serve. These dogs put their life on the line everyday to keep us and their handler safe. Learning that all across America, there are police agencies that do not have a budget for them was heartbreaking. Retired K9s lose any benefits they may have had. They also deserve funds in return for their commitment that they unselfishly served.

K9 Buddy retired on February 16, 2021. He was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer in September 2021 and passed away on April 1, 2022. Her fundraising allowed his handler to medically treat Buddy and keep him comfortable and around as long as possible.

Because of K9 Buddy’s passing, this is what inspired Jan to fight for other dogs in need of funds. It was K9 Buddy that started her love for Police dogs and “The Buddy Foundation” would be created.