Any experienced police canine handlers out there?

Any advice for a 17-year vet officer trying to get a handler's position at our PD? We've never had a canine program at our PD before, so this is a brand new position and experience. My husband is very interested since this is something he's wanted to do his whole career, but it seems that the selection process may be more of a popularity contest than one based on qualifications. Out of all the interested candidates (I work there too), I believe he's most qualified and dedicated (removing as much bias as possible). He's experienced, is on the tactical team, works tons of OT and often comes in at a moment's notice, is scheduled to go to drug interdiction training and most of all, loves dogs. I've suggested that he read up and educate himself as much as possible, but is there more he can do? He's being told such things as he won't get it because he's "got dogs at home."