On Friday, Mayor Donald G. Flores said these personnel will implement the 1995 Saipan and Northern Islands Dog Control Act.
They will help ensure the safety of the community against stray dogs, he added.
Besides Lizama, those who completed the training were Richard Santos, Harry Matagolai, Antonio S. Reyes, James Villagomez, and Derron Flores.
The mayor said from Jan. 20, 2010 to May 21, 2011 they have removed 350 dogs killed on public roads and have responded to many calls regarding vicious dogs.
The mayor said they have a “very minimal budget” but the Legislature, the business sector and the community are providing assistance.
Lizama said it is important to enhance their knowledge and skills to better respond to stray or vicious dogs.
“Safety is our utmost concern,” he said.
Marja Onni, a certified canine instructor and the canine program supervisor of the Divison of Fish and Wildlife’s brown tree snake program, said the trainings focused on the dog’s behavior and health.
The next level of training will concentrate on testing and temperament as well as basic obedience, she said.
Onni said the program aims to prevent the spread of diseases afflicting dogs, particularly those that are wild and sick.
“This is a health issue,” she said.
The mayor’s staffers were “very motivated” during the training, she added.
