The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is looking forward to welcoming the newest member of its K-9 program, Akim.

Akim will arrive in Washoe County early this month. His partner will be Deputy Corey Solferino. They will work patrol and narcotics.

The sheriff’s office acquired Akim thanks to a generous donation from a member of the Honorary Deputy Sheriff’s Association who wishes to remain anonymous. Given the importance and effectiveness of the K-9 program, the donor wanted to make sure the sheriff’s office would be able to replace K-9 Kraft who passed away unexpectedly last year.

Akim is the newest member of the Washoe County Sheriffi's Office. Photo/Provided

The donation provided funds for the purchase of a new canine and all travel and training for Akim and Solferino. The donation included a protective vest designed specifically for canines.

Akim is a 17-month-old, sable Czechoslovakian Shepherd. He was born in Prague and brought to the United States to train for a career in law enforcement at the Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Ind. Solferino chose Akim as a partner from hundreds of potential dogs.

Solferino said he started by working with a number of different dogs in situations that would potentially show how the dog would react when out on patrol.

Solferino and Akim are scheduled to graduate from their Vohne Liche training March 9.