Sniffing Out Hope: The Origin of Desert Drug Dog

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Desert Drug Dog was founded in 2009 by Amy Halm, a dedicated public information officer in the healthcare industry who never imagined that a quirky Belgian Malinois would lead her into the world of narcotics detection.

It all began when Amy gave a police-trained, traffic-hating drug dog named K-9 Dargo his forever home. Dargo’s career in law enforcement had come to a halt due to his fear of moving vehicles. While he wasn’t cut out for patrol, his incredible nose hadn’t lost its edge. Amy originally intended for him to be her pet and serve as a therapy dog for the hospital. 

One day over lunch, friends casually asked Amy if Dargo could still detect drugs. Unsure, she decided to find out. She brought Dargo back to the house and gave him his search command for the very first time. What happened next was remarkable—he snapped into work mode instantly, began searching the house and found their medical marijuana, shocking everyone with his instinctive skill. The group quickly realized the potential of using trained detection dogs to support families who had loved ones struggling with addiction, and from that moment, Desert Drug Dog was born.

What started as one woman and her dog has now grown into a respected, professional detection dog company with 6 handlers and 13 certified K-9s, serving both private families and professional clients across Arizona. Our team specializes in narcotics and firearm detection, offering discreet, non-judgmental, and reliable services to help keep environments drug- and gun-free.

At Desert Drug Dog, we believe in the power of early intervention, compassionate support, and the unmatched abilities of highly trained detection dogs. From schools and businesses to treatment centers and private homes, we’re committed to helping individuals, families, and communities stay safe.

Our mission is rooted in Dargo’s legacy—and every search we conduct honors the dog who started it all.