Credit – Annapolis Fire Department
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Annapolis Fire Department has officially welcomed K-9 Bear, a Belgian Malinois trained in explosives detection, as the newest member of its Fire and Explosives Services Unit.
Investigator and Bomb Technician Matthew Montgomery recently returned from New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where he and Bear completed extensive training with Southern Coast K9.
“He’s very high-drive and loves to work,” Montgomery said. “It’s a unique bond—you spend every day together, training, living, working. He’s not just a tool; he’s a partner.”
At just under two years old, Bear is trained to detect a range of explosive materials. Montgomery said the training was intense, with daily drills designed to prepare the team for real-world scenarios, including searches of buildings, vehicles, and open areas.
“Bear did great in training. He’s focused, alert, and always ready to go,” Montgomery said. “Now we’re ready to serve the city.”
The addition of Bear to the Annapolis Fire Department was made possible by the Chesapeake K-9 Fund, a local nonprofit that supports public safety agencies by helping purchase working dogs, equipment, and services.
“Our mission is to keep communities safe by supporting K-9 units like this one,” said Dave Mandell, president of the Chesapeake K-9 Fund. “Bear is going to make a real impact in Annapolis and beyond.”
Bear will assist with fire investigations, public events, and regional mutual aid calls requiring explosives detection. For now, Montgomery said Bear is settling into his new role well—and already turning heads at the station.
“He’s got a lot of energy and a lot of heart,” Montgomery said. “He’s ready to work.”
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