Murrysville police Officer Scott Kettren is brushing up on his Dutch to work with his new partner: Argos, the department's new police dog.

Argo replaces Raz, who was retired earlier this year after working more than five years with Officer Brian Dulkis.

After Raz's retirement, Kettren volunteered to work with the next police dog.

"I've always liked dogs," Kettren said. "It's an added dimension to law enforcement."

Argos is a 16-month-old Belgian Malinois from the Netherlands. Chief Tom Seefeld said the department researched different breeders and dog breeds before settling on Argos.

Argos and Kettren trained for six weeks in Mechanicsburg last month prior to hitting the streets together. Kettren said the program gave him plenty of time to get acquainted with his new partner.

"During the down time, we just socialized," he said.

The new role brings a new routine for Kettren. His day begins by feeding Argos and getting the dog ready for work. Argos lives with Kettren full-time when they're not on patrol. Kettren also will have extra training classes with Argos.

"It's extra work, but there's extra enjoyment," he said.

Since starting work last week, Argos has had limited duty. Kettren said that Argos performed a perimeter search during a response to a house-alarm call to help keep the canine active.

During the training course, Kettren and Argos practiced various detection methods needed for the job.

"I'm looking forward to putting the training to actual use," Kettren said.

Kettren said he also is looking forward to having Argos promote the police department. Raz was a frequent guest at local schools and at community events, and Kettren said he hopes Argos will have the same presence.

When they aren't working, Kettren said, he tries to keep Argos as busy as possible.

After a swearing-in ceremony and reception last week, the two played ball to burn off steam.

"He's a high-energy dog," Kettren said. "I want to keep him active."

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)