COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — Idaho State Police K9s across the Gem State are now trained to sniff out fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that's driven up overdose rates nationwide.

Seven ISP drug-detection dogs are now certified and trained to detect the drug, with the final K9 completing certification Monday, ISP said in a release. This marks full statewide implementation of fentanyl detection training.

“These dogs are incredibly smart and can typically learn a new scent in less than a week,” ISP K-9 Handler Sgt. Chris Cottrell said. “Being certified on this new odor only strengthens our efforts in the fight against illegal drugs.”

Fentanyl is the fifth odor the dogs are trained to detect, joining methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana. ISP says the new certification enhances its

See Full Page