Matka, a Hungarian Vizsla Joins the Security Team of the Minnesota Capitol
The Minnesota State Capitol is located in Minnesota’s capitol, Saint Paul. The Capitol is a huge complex and houses the Minnesota Senate, the Minnesota House of Representatives, and the office of the Attorney General and the office of the Governor. The building was modelled after the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy.
The entire Capitol is undergoing a three year restoration project and is closed to the public until early 2017. Since its original construction more than 111 years ago (in 1905) this is the first comprehensive preservation effort of the Capitol. In the meantime security staff will also increase from two troopers to ten and from 35 guards to 50. The vision behind these new security measures is to ensure a renewed Capitol that is safe, secure and resilient against terrorism and other hazards.
The Capitol’s Most Adorable Recruit
In January 2016, the Capitol security team proudly welcomed a highly specialized new member to their ranks. Her name is Matka, and she holds the unique distinction of being perhaps the only police officer regularly described by the public as “sweet” or “adorable.” An 18-month-old Hungarian Vizsla, Matka brings a perfect blend of steadfast loyalty, boundless energy, and an incredibly sharp mind to the force.
A Nose for Security Despite her endearing demeanor, Matka has a very serious job. Working side-by-side with her handler, State Trooper Kaj Meinhardt—who speaks of his canine partner with immense pride and affection—she will actively patrol the Capitol grounds. Armed with a highly sensitive and thoroughly trained nose, Matka’s primary mission is to seamlessly sweep the area to sniff out drugs, explosives, and suspicious packages. Together, she and Trooper Meinhardt will also undergo continuous, rigorous training to ensure they are always prepared to neutralize unexpected security threats.
An Approachable Protector When most people picture a police dog, they imagine massive, imposing breeds like German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois. Matka completely breaks that mold. She is quite petite, measuring on the smaller side even for a Vizsla. However, this smaller stature is a massive strategic advantage for the department. Because the Capitol is a busy, public-facing environment, Matka can effectively secure the premises without terrifying tourists, children, or visiting dignitaries the way a larger, more intimidating guard dog might.
Respecting the Badge While visitors might just see a cute, friendly dog, the law sees a sworn protector. What many people do not realize is that in the eyes of the justice system, there is absolutely no legal distinction between a K-9 officer like Matka and her human counterparts. Assaulting, injuring, or killing a police dog carries the exact same severe legal punishments as committing those crimes against a human officer. These dogs dedicate their entire lives to public safety, and their departments honor that unwavering sacrifice deeply. If a K-9 is tragically killed in the line of duty, they are laid to rest with the utmost respect, receiving a complete, official police funeral with full honors.
After its reopening, the Capitol, this beautiful historical building will be waiting for its visitors from all over the world. And Matka, this lovely Hungarian vizsla will be there too, she will watch over every move in the “house”.
