FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Flagler County on Friday and signed a bill that is expected to help care for retired police dogs.

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The bill will establish a program for K9s that will help cover some of the veterinary costs for their caregivers.

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It will allow caregivers to receive up to $1,500 to cover veterinary costs.

Photos: Gov. DeSantis signs bill to support retired law enforcement K9s

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Gov. DeSantis signs bill to support retired law enforcement K9s

It can cost more than $3,000 a year to care for the dogs in retirement.

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“When I was active duty, a lot of military dogs in places like Iraq would be in really difficult situations,” DeSantis said. “The same thing with these K9s. They’re put in very difficult situations and they’re not only protecting the officers but they’re also protecting the public as a whole.”

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The program must be administered by a nonprofit dedicated to caring for retired police dogs.

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