FINNEYTOWN — Getting up early on a Sunday morning to see the doctor is not exactly something people would line up to do.

        But for 20 canine police dogs and their handlers, the once-a-year opportunity to see six veterinary specialists at once at no charge is not to be missed.

        College Hill Pet Clinic was the staging area for local law enforcement to bring their working German shepherds, Labrador retrievers and Malinois dogs for extensive check-ups.

        This is the ninth time the Cincinnati Veterinary Medical Association has sponsored the Canine Corps Health Clinic.

        “It's a way we can give back,” said Dr. Colleen Black, a veterinarian and spokesman for the association. “We know how hard they work in their communities.”

        A veterinary ophthalmol ogist, internist, radiologist, dentist, dermatologist and orthopedic surgeon saw dogs six at a time, each in a separate room, rotating through one after another for four hours. Other general practice veterinarians assisted.

        Narcotic and bomb-sniffing dogs, many with muzzles, lined the waiting areas and hallways waiting to be seen. Police officers stood with leashes taut, covered in hair shed from nervous, jumpy dogs waiting to be frisked, poked, stuck and turned on their sides.

        “This is a fantastic program,” said John Patrick, an officer at Caesar Creek State Park and handler for 6-year-old Guese. “They have the specialists here. This is the only time (the dogs) can have an ultrasound.”

        On average, police dogs represent an $8,000 purchase. Vet expenses, additional training and food, among other needs, adds to the cost. A department would spend $600 for the same services the free clinic provides, College Hill Pet Clinic owner Dr. Kevin Ketring said. Dogs see their regular vets about two times a year, outside the clinic.

        While some continuing health problems are checked, the clinic's main goal is preventive medicine. An ultrasound showed one dog has a spleen problem, another dog had severe retina damage.

        “Any K-9 who doesn't show up is a shame. They've passed up an opportunity,” Dr. Ketring said. “Some people would be hurt if that dog wouldn't smell the bomb. There could be some significant problems.”

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