Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  The Orange Beach Police Department has a new four-legged officer on the job. K9 Gator, a German Shorthaired Pointer, has officially joined the department's K9 Unit. He is partnered with Officer Brennan Giles and is trained as a single-purpose narcotics detection dog. Gator is also trained in tracking and trailing to help locate suspects and missing persons.

K9 Gator was born on August 13, 2024. Officer Giles and Gator began training together on March 16, 2026, and graduated from K9 school on May 21, 2026. The team officially began serving the citizens and visitors of Orange Beach on May 27, 2026.

The pair completed an intensive training program before hitting the streets. Their graduation marked the end of weeks of rigorous preparation. The Orange Beach Police Department said the team's specialized skills are a valuable resource for the community. Gator now assists officers with narcotics detection, tracking, trailing, and other law enforcement operations.

Residents and visitors may spot K9 Gator while he is on patrol or at community events. The department noted that Gator also participates in school visits and public demonstrations. While the dog enjoys meeting people when appropriate, he remains a working police dog at all times.

The department is asking the public to be mindful when Gator is actively working. "If Gator is actively working, please allow him to stay focused on his job," the Orange Beach Police Department said. "If you see him at a community event, feel free to stop by and say hello!"

The Orange Beach Police Department said it looks forward to many years of service from the new K9 team. Gator's specialized training adds another layer of protection for the community. The department expressed pride in welcoming the young K9 to its ranks.