LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Lawrence police officers will soon be able to call two dogs their partners in fighting crime.

The City Commission approved funds to create the new K-9 unit on Tuesday night. The money will be used to purchase the animals and equip vehicles for them, along with paying for veterinarian bills and food.

A police officer says Lawrence is one of 10 largest cities in Kansas that doesn’t have its own canine unit. He says the department has depended on requesting dogs from neighboring law enforcement agencies when needed.

The city’s police chief says the department will interview officers to select who will serve as the dogs’ handlers.

The Lawrence Journal-World (http://bit.ly/1C0iXoz ) reports officers will purchase the dogs from a Texas breeder used by the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Police Service Dog Unit.