This week's Northern Express, the annual Pet Projects issue, includes profiles of five K-9 dogs and their law enforcement masters, including Grand Traverse County's own Jax and deputy Matt Jerome. 

The male German Shepherd, who came to the department via a grant award from the Schmuckal Foundation, is actually Jerome’s second working companion. His first dog, Yogi, passed away last May.

But Jax is already becoming a great pal and a dependable police dog, Jerome says. "When it’s time to work, he does his job well, searches very well, but when work’s over, he wags his tail a lot and just really enjoys being around people. I think that’s important, too," he says.

Only a few weeks into his job, Jax has already done some positive narcotics searches and looks like he’s going to fit into his new partnership with Deputy Jerome just fine.

“You get to do a lot of different, cool events with the dogs, in addition to the work,” Jerome said. “It’s very rewarding.”

This week's issue also includes:
* An in-depth look at the ongoing debate over whether to allow dogs in outdoor dining and food service areas
* A feature story on the veterinarians and pet companies who specialize in helping pet owners say goodbye to their animals and navigate the grieving process
* A Northern Seen photo spread dedicated completely to northern Michigan readers and their pets

...plus the 2014 Northern Express election guide, and much more! Check out the Northern Express online, or pick up a free copy at one of more than 600 distribution spots across 13 counties. And, stay connected throughout the week on Facebook.