Police K-9s serve on the front lines alongside our law enforcement officers, helping track suspects, locate missing people, and keep our communities safe. After years of dedicated service, these incredible dogs deserve to be taken care of in retirement.
That is why I want to make you aware of a new opportunity for Illinois residents to support retired police dogs across our state.
Applications are now open for the Illinois Police K-9 Memorial License Plate, which will help fund the Care for Retired Police Dogs Grant Program. This program will provide financial assistance to handlers and adoptive families who are responsible for covering veterinary costs once a K-9 retires from active duty.
Under the program, eligible veterinary expenses can be reimbursed for up to $1,500 per year. To qualify, a K-9 must have served at least five years, or at least three years if the dog was injured in the line of duty.
Importantly, this program will be funded entirely through the sale of the specialty license plate, meaning it will not cost Illinois taxpayers a dime. To ensure the program is sustainable, it will launch once 2,000 license plate applications are received by January 2028.
If you would like to help support retired police K-9s, you can apply for the new specialty plate by selecting “Illinois Police K-9 Memorial License Plate” under the specialty plate options at this link. A $25 fee will go directly toward the fund that supports the grant program.
These dogs spend their careers protecting our communities. Supporting them in retirement is a small way we can give back for the service they have provided.
For more information, I encourage you to contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office or visit their website to apply.
