Sentry adds K-9 to security team to enhance safety| Sentry Insurance

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K-9s have become highly successful security additions to corporate workplaces

STEVENS POINT, Wis. (November 11, 2021) – Sentry would like to introduce Ares, a first-of-his-kind hire for the business-to-business insurer. Ares (pronounced “air-eez”) will become the first K-9 colleague to walk the halls of Sentry’s offices as part of its security team.

“Sentry has supported police department K-9 programs—here in Stevens Point and across the state of Wisconsin—and we’ve grown to appreciate the critical role they play in protecting our communities,” said Pete McPartland, Sentry chairman of the board, president, and CEO. “Adding a K-9 to our security team is a natural extension of our mission to make our workplaces as safe as possible.”

Ares is trained to detect guns. The 17-month-old Belgian Malinois will enhance the company’s security apparatus, adding an additional layer of protection for Sentry employees and guests. Ares and his handler, officer Dan Wachowiak, will patrol Sentry workplaces across the country.

“Workplace violence is a real and increasing threat to America’s workforce,” said Adam Williams, Sentry’s chief security officer. “One of the keys to stopping this violence is keeping guns out of our facilities. Adding Ares to our team helps us do just that. It’s a proactive step to increase security, deter bad actors, and help everyone feel more safe and secure.

“Rest assured, there’s no immediate threat,” added Williams. “We made this decision to continue to foster a safe environment for all our employees and guests—one built on respect and partnership.”

The addition of a K-9 aligns with Sentry’s culture and its efforts to provide a positive experience for all who visit or work in its facilities. In addition to law enforcement agencies, quite a few businesses are adding a K-9 to their security operations. K-9s have become highly successful security tools.

Ares is a passive alert gun detection dog. When he detects his trained odor, he alerts and awaits his reward. While Ares is a working dog, he’s also social and can be approached.

Dan Wachowiak, a former Portage County Sheriff’s Office deputy, brings more than a decade of experience in K-9 handling. He has also led training for area law enforcement K-9 teams.

“We’re excited to add Ares to our team,” said Wachowiak. “We’ll be on patrol and we’ll always be together, like partners.”

Wachowiak, along with members of the Sentry leadership team, helped select Ares from Vohne Liche Kennels in Indiana, where he and Ares trained together prior to joining Sentry. Training will be ongoing throughout the pair’s career.

When not on patrol, Ares will stay in a kennel at Sentry or with Wachowiak as a member of his family.

Sentry adds K-9 to security team to enhance safety

K-9s have become highly successful security additions to corporate workplaces

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