NYPD unveils bloodhound Daisy in 2025 calendar, sparking debate over police canine roles

In May 2024, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) unveiled its 2025 'Canine & Friends' calendar, featuring one of its newest additions, a bloodhound named Daisy. This calendar showcases the essential roles that police dogs play in law enforcement, highlighting their contributions in various areas such as explosive detection, firearms detection, and search and rescue operations. The calendar not only celebrates these canine officers but also serves as a source of funding for police initiatives, with sales from the previous year's calendar generating nearly $60,000 to benefit programs like CrimeStoppers. The ninth edition of this calendar pays tribute to the canine heroes within the NYPD, many of whom are named after fallen officers, including K-9 Diller, named after Detective Jonathan Diller, who tragically lost his life during a routine car stop in March 2024. This naming tradition emphasizes the bonds between police officers and their canine partners, acknowledging the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their support animals in the line of duty. Taylor Kahn, Director of Development and Events at the New York City Police Foundation, has drawn attention to Daisy's vital role in assisting her human counterparts in various challenging situations. As a bloodhound, Daisy is trained in distinct skill sets that enable her to aid in detecting explosives and firearms, ensuring public safety. Additionally, her skills extend to search and rescue missions, including locating missing persons, which signifies the importance of therapy and support animals in law enforcement. The success of the calendar, alongside its commemorative nature, reinforces the ongoing commitment of the NYPD to incorporate innovative support systems in crime prevention and resolution. The canine unit exemplifies teamwork and dedication within the department, showcasing not just the ability of these four-legged officers but also their integral part in the overarching mission of the NYPD to serve and protect the community.