Police dogs put themselves on the line every day to serve and protect.
Watching a police dog in action, putting himself in harm’s way shows the true spirit of our four-legged friends who are faithful to the end.
Nobody knows this better than Erik Johnson who has been with his K-9 officer Gabo for 7 years.
The tragic events on a December afternoon in Arkansas were made even more distressing by the fact Erik knew his beloved dog was about to enter a dangerous situation. Erik told Gabo, “I’m sorry for what is about to happen.”
It was in Jonesboro in 2018 that Erik was training his 8-year-old German Shepherd when he heard reports of a shooting incident.
A 56-year-old woman had shot a 41-year-old man who had entered her home to check on her well-being. She then fired shots at officers attending the scene.
Erik knew he had to attend with Gabo and knew the worrying risk he was about to take with his loyal K-9 officer. The dangerous stand-off between the woman and police officers went on for five hours before Gabo arrived to help end it all.
But in doing so Gabo was shot five times by the suspect who then started firing at officers.
Erik Johnson was overcome with grief and at the veterinary clinic lay by his beloved K-9 for hours as prepared himself for the worst.
But Gabo miraculously survived the shooting and went on to receive the K9 Medal of Valor — all thanks to a bullet-proof vest provided by non-profit Vested Interest in K-9s.
Watch what happens with Erik and Gabo finally meet the organization’s founder Sandy Marcel to thank her in person for helping to save Gabo’s life.
Gabo is a true hero and deserves his medal!
Please share to pay tribute to Gabo and all the other K-9s who risk their lives to keep us and the officers around them safe.
