LVHN Introduces Weapon Detecting K-9s
Dexter and Cisco will round LVHN hospitals and attend community events
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, has added two security K-9s capable of detecting firearms Dexter and Cisco have started making rounds at LVHN hospitals and major health network and community events
“Keeping our patients, colleagues and community safe continues to be our focus,” says Ryan Hay, administrator of Emergency Operations and Public Safety.
Dexter is a male black Labrador retriever. His name means fortunate and skilled.
Cisco is a female springer spaniel. Her name is associated with being free and of a lively spirit. Both dogs are about age 1 1/2.
Two LVHN security officers, Kasey O’Connell and Ed Mayer, are their full-time handlers.
“We’re looking forward to introducing Dexter and Cisco to the community,” says O’Connell, who is paired with Cisco. “They have rotating schedules that involve visiting multiple campuses.”
Visitors are encouraged to please ask before petting the K-9s while they’re working
“Dexter and Cisco are friendly faces in the hospitals, despite their highly skilled and important role to detect firearms,” says Mayer, who is paired with Dexter.
PMREMS proudly participated in the 2025 Mock Crash for area high school students alongside fellow emergency response professionals to illustrate the dangers of distracted driving
PARTNER POINTS
honors the critical work of 911 dispatchers across the nation who serve as the vital link between emergency response teams and the communities they protect.
At Pocono Mountain Regional EMS, we respond to nearly 8,000 emergency calls annually and every one of those calls begins with the calm, professional voice of a 911 dispatcher. These unsung heroes are the first point of contact in a crisis, skillfully gathering information, calming chaos, and dispatching EMS, fire, and law enforcement teams where they’re needed most.
To our colleagues at Monroe County Control Center: thank you for being the steady voice in the storm, for your dedication, and for your tireless service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your role is irreplaceable, and your impact is immeasurable. Today and every day we salute you.
