State Rep. Bryan Spencer, District 63, is planning a motorcycle festival to raise money for the Wright City Police Department to purchase a new police dog.The department’s current dog, Zeus, is about 5 years old, according to Chief Matthew Eskew. Zeus has developed an arthritic condition that causes him to struggle during extended training or field activity, Eskew said.Zeus has regular visits at the Wright City Veterinary Clinic and is cleared to work for now, but Eskew said if his condition worsens, Zeus will have to be retired and live with his handler.Eskew said he hopes Zeus can work a couple more years, and he welcomes help in purchasing a new canine.“It’s outstanding. Our dog is supported by the community, the funds were raised by the community to have him in the first place,” Eskew said. “As time has gone by, we’ve found out how important he is. I think it’s a program we can’t afford to lose.”Replacing Zeus will likely cost $15,000 or more.With that in mind, the time to start saving is now, Spencer said at a Dec. 29 city meeting where he received permission for the motorcycle event. He hopes to lay the foundation for an annual festival that will draw motorcycle enthusiasts to Wright City and raise $5,000-$7,000 per year.“I think Zeus serves this community well, and to replace a K9 unit is very expensive,” Spencer said. “After we get a replacement, if this event is allowed to continue, then it could fulfill any type of need the city may find.”Kim Jumper, an event planner who works with Spencer, laid out plans for the “Red, Wright, and Blue Bike Fest” to the Wright City Board of Aldermen.The festival is planned for April 29 in Diekroeger Park, she said. The goal is for 250 participants to bring their motorcycles to the event, with a fundraising target of $11,000.“I feel very strongly we can get to that $11,000,” Jumper said. “I’ve already spoken to St. Charles Harley-Davidson. They’re very interested in being a headline sponsor.”Of the $11,000 fundraising goal, $4,000 would go to expenses from the event, with $7,000 left to put toward a new police dog.Eskew called Spencer stepping in to assist the department “unbelievable.”“I really appreciate the help,” Eskew said.

Photo courtesy of http://dogsondutymo.org/meet-our-dogs/.