Dog show proceeds to help Sheriff’s Office acquire new K-9

The upcoming Cotton Land Cluster of Dog Shows is more than a place for pets to be put on display, it is also a huge economic boost for the area.

The shows will begin Sept. 3 at the Monroe Civic Center and will be dedicated in the memory of Ouachita Parish K-9 officer Cpl. J.R. Searcy and Bayou Kennel Club supporter J.E. Faler. Searcy was killed in the line of duty earlier this year.

Alana Cooper, executive director of the Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, said this is the 38th year for the event and it has many benefits for the community.

“Last year it had a $2 million impact, and the event keeps growing,” Cooper said. “It is a family-friendly event, and people can come out and bring their kids.”

Proceeds from the event are used for local scholarships and to benefit the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit.

The Sheriff’s Office currently has two dogs and are searching for another. Chuckie, a German Shepherd, and Popeye, a black Labrador retriever, were guests at the kickoff news conference on Wednesday.

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