Corning Police Department’s newest partnership, Officer Dannette Ross and her canine partner, Ghost, are undergoing their five weeks of professional police canine/handler training at
Since November, the duo have been patrolling the streets and building the strong bond that every canine team needs, reported the CPD.
Ghost is a Belgian Malinois-German Shepard cross originally from the Czech Republic and purchased by the city from Meyer’s Police K9 Training, where the team is in training.
“Ghost was chosen because of his personality and drive,” said Corning Police Chief Craig Bassett. “We are excited to be a part of the Tehama County K9 Foundation team again.”
While it took some time for the partnership’s bond to develop, Ross said, “I’m confident we have a strong bond now, and I look forward to having him as my partner.”
Within Ross’s household, Ghost lives with many other pets, including horses, a mini donkey, dogs, and a few cats.
“Ghost loves playing ball and goes crazy for them. He is very particular about his treats; he will only eat one specific type,” Ross said.
Another fun fact about Ghost, is that he has his very own traveling passport.
Upon being selected as the CPD canine handler, Bassett said of Ross, “She has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment throughout the selection process, and we are excited to see the positive impact she will make in this important role.”
Ross started her career with the CPD as a dispatcher. Working closely with the police officers inspired her to attend the Butte College Law Enforcement Academy where she graduated in December 2022 and was soon after sworn in as the CPD first female officer in 10 years.
The 40-year-old officer is married to husband Levi, and is the mother of three children.
She has lived in Corning for 15 years, having grown up in Vacaville.
The City of Corning sponsored Ross through the Butte College Law Enforcement Academy.
Previous to the Ross and Ghost partnership, theCPD’s last such crime fighting duo was Officer Chase Corry and Blaze. That partnership transferred over to the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office in 2023, where Corry now serves as a detective. The sheriff’s office purchased Blaze from the CPD and it was in part those funds which were used by the city of Corning to purchase Ghost for $23,000 and pay for training.
City Manager Brant Mesker said this wouldn’t have been possible without community support.
