Sturia tried working with three other dogs at the beginning of his training. None seemed to be cut out for narcotics work. Kirby had worked with an officer in Dayton. But he remained in a kennel for more than a year after his handler was involved in an accident. A match with Sturia was made and the pair became partners and roomies.
Police dogs live with their officers even when they are off duty.
It's like having a kid, Sturia says. At least once a day, Sturia likes to test Kirby's skills, often driving to the police impound lot and hiding a bag of drugs in a car there. The duo also train with Cook once a week. It's amazing to watch him work.