Capital K9s is a nonprofit organization comprised of area volunteers who assist the Madison Police Department in establishing and maintaining a K9 Unit. The organization was formed in 2004 and is operated by an all volunteer Board of Directors. Capital K9s exists solely to fund and support the Madison Police Department K9 Unit. For many years, the police department operated without a K9 Unit or any police dog capabilities. While a few police dogs over the years were assigned to the Dane County Narcotics and Gang Task force, budget limitations precluded the development of a dedicated K9 Unit. Funds raised by Capital K9s are used to pay for vehicles, dogs, training, equipment and other items necessary for the K9 Unit to function effectively. Virtually all of the costs of the K9 Unit, with the exception of officer salaries and vehicle maintenance, are funded by Capital K9s. Capital K9s raises funds through a variety of ways including events, community appearances, corporate and business donors, as well as individual donors.