Former shelter dog becomes a Riverton police K9

Riverton,

UT -

Atlas, an 18-month-old Belgian Malinois, is getting a second chance after being abandoned at the Brigham City Animal Shelter in Utah.

The dog was noticed by Brigham City K-9 handler Officer Kyle Whittaker, who saw potential in Atlas's drive to hunt and his courage. Although the Brigham City Police Department couldn't take him in, the Riverton Police Department in Utah did, offering a cost-effective solution for a new police dog.

Atlas is now training to be a K-9 officer under Riverton Police Sgt. E.J. Estrada and has quickly shown promise in his new role. The dog, named Atlas by popular vote, is set to be a valuable asset in the department's efforts to find drugs and apprehend criminals.