Today we’d like to introduce you to Andy Roberts.
Hi Andy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I founded the Remote K9 Foundation in August of last year after retiring as a K9 handler and trainer with the Virginia State Police. For 21 years in 2021 I served as a lead trainer and handler for patrol dogs, training state police officers as well as members of local sheriff’s offices and police departments.
During my time in southwest Virginia assisgned to Patrick county, i also was assigned at the training facility based in Abingdon, I saw firsthand the challenges facing small departments in one of the state’s most economically disadvantaged regions. I was equally struck by the dedication of the handlers and officers I trained. Over the years, we built close friendships and faced many dangerous calls together.
One evening, I called a group of those officers with an idea: to create a foundation that could support the people and departments that had helped shape my career. Together, we formed a board of people I trust and named the organization the Remote K9 Foundation. We focus on small departments because they often have a limited tax base—and some of the greatest needs.
The foundation helps police departments obtain K9s and equipment, and provides training sponsorships to smaller agencies. We have already issued our first grant to help a sheriff’s office acquire a new K9. We are now working to provide equipment to another department, while a third has requested assistance.
No one on the board receives a salary. Every board member is a former canine handler, and the team’s experience also includes a former police chief, a special agent, bomb technicians, and SWAT specialists. We work to put every possible dollar directly toward the needs of the departments we serve.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a rocky start, and I’ve learned that I’m neither an IT expert nor a marketing professional. We launched a Facebook page, asked for donations, and tried a few strategies, but we didn’t raise as much as I’d hoped. Still, we’re gaining momentum. We recently attended a Chamber event and sold some items to support our next campaign.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a handler, I helped locate suspects in serious cases, including first-degree murder investigations, as well as numerous felony and misdemeanor cases. I’m especially proud of working with other K9 teams—helping them obtain a new K9, become certified, and get to work in the field. I also conducted in-service and maintenance training to help teams work proficiently, address challenges, and maintain a high level of performance.
As an instructor, I was known for my laid-back approach and for going out of my way to help anyone who asked. After retiring from the state police, I continued working with dogs and am currently employed training working dogs. I retired on a Thursday and started my new job the following Monday.
Also I am most proud of my daughter, Alexis. She continues to excel and pushing to better herself and has a heart of helping people.
And my faith in God, to get me to where I am today!
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I’m comfortable taking risks when the situation calls for it. During my career, I was involved in many pursuits and K9 tracks while searching for dangerous, sometimes armed, suspects. On one occasion, I entered a building after a shot was fired. The SWAT team followed close behind with a ballistic shield, while my K9 and I were out in front.
When it comes to business, though, I tend to be more cautious. I believe taking thoughtful risks is sometimes necessary to grow and succeed, but I also think it’s important to weigh those risks carefully.
Pricing:
- all donations are acceptable from $1 and above
Contact Info:
- Website: https://remotek9foundation.org
- Instagram: remotek9foundation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575751932946
