Johnstown Police and the Tomahawks Hockey Team teamed up for an event called Pucks and Paws.

This event is to help raise money to support the K9 unit. Johnstown Police are giving back to the community by allowing the junior chiefs hockey team to see what it is like to be an officer for a day; some said they want to be behind the badge when they are older.

The youth hockey team was giving a chance to wear swat team vests and stand is like behind jail cell bars.

“That is what it is all about. Seeing them smile, letting them know we are there to protect them and if they have a question, we are there for them all the time,” Johnstown K9 officer Michael Kanuch said.

Johnstown police also gave a K9 demonstration. The junior chiefs coach even played victim to a K9 attack.

Kids had more to look forward to on their way to the Tomahawk’s hockey game for a benefit called “Pucks an Paws.”

“We gave them a parade down Johnstown, embellished it with lights, sirens, invite the fire department, just let them have a good time,” Kanuch said.

 A K9 dropped the puck, with fans paying an extra five bucks to bring along their dogs.

“Just the mere presence of a K9 can stop any situation. We currently have four working K9’s. With a large fight, just with that dog coming and barking, it can stop a situation. It is nice to have backup,” Kanuch said,

 For the last 20 years, Johnstown K9 unit relied on community donations and events like “Pucks and Paws” to keep the city protected.