MARK-9 is a non-profit organization set up to assist handlers with the financial needs of medical care for their retired K-9 partner. When working K-9s retire, they often live with their partner and their family. Very few departments have a program in place to care for the medical needs of these K-9s during retirement. All costs associated with the K-9’s is the responsibility of the Officer and his/her family.
The goal of MARK-9 (Medical Assistance for Retired K-9’s) is to provide financial assistance for the medical care of retired working dogs. As K-9s retire due to medical issues or age. Many handlers are inundated with sky rocketing veterinarian care, whether it be annual wellness care, an unexpected illness, or a medical emergency.
We are a 501(c)3 organization run by a team of volunteers. All donations are tax deductible to the full extend allowed by law.
We can be reached at:
560 W. Ogden Ave, Suite C
Lisle, Illinois 60532
Phone: (630) 301-2320
info@mark-9.org
Alexis Newman, DVM, CVPP, EMT
President
Dr. Alexis Newman received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Iowa State University in 1998. Following veterinary school, she completed a Surgical and Emergency Internship at California Animal Hospital, in West Los Angeles. Dr. Newman has a special interest in police and working K-9s. She has worked with them for many years and understands the needs of the K-9, the handler, and police departments. Her passion of working with police dogs and their handlers, led to starting Partners and Paws Veterinary Services. Dr. Newman also works with sporting groups, rescue groups and ‘civilian’ dogs and cats. In addition to treating working dogs, Dr. Newman’s special interests include trauma, soft tissue surgery and pain management. She completed her certification from the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management and, becoming a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP) in Illinois. Dr. Newman has written also written a veterinary health column for the Police K-9 magazine since 2012, which is well known among K-9 handlers. She speaks regularly to local police and other K-9 groups as well as conducts first-aid classes for first responders.
Jim King
Treasurer
Jim is the owner of Wheaton Website Services, a global website design, development and hosting company. He serves as the IT Coordinator for several dog focused non-profits in the Midwest. Jim and his wife Nickey have been proud owners of rescued Golden Retrievers for more than 20 years. In his spare time, he enjoys woodworking and his grandson Mason.
Coordinators
Marketing – Cindy Keating
Social Media – Anjali Antani