K9 police dogs are an invaluable part of any law enforcement department. They work alongside their human handlers, dedicating their lives to protecting their communities.
They deserve the same respect we show human police officers — and when their time comes, they deserve a dignified and respectful send-off.
That was the case for one K9, who got a hero’s final salute as he was taken to be euthanized.
K9 Tommy, a 7-year-old German Shepherd, was a faithful and important part of the Northwest Ohio K9 Group. According to WFIN, he had a five-year career with the police, and his duties included detecting drugs and missing persons.
Sadly, Tommy’s watch came to an end after he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.
His handler, Officer Berger, took the K9 to be humanely euthanized at the Blanchard Valley Veterinary Clinic on August 26 — but on the way, the heroic K9 got one final send-off from his colleagues.
Officers from all across Ohio came out to pay tribute to Tommy, saluting him as he took his final walk.
The officers continued to salute as Berger left the hospital with the departed Tommy, draped in an American flag.
Perhaps the most emotional moment was when Tommy’s final watch call went over the radio:
“Thank you for being a good boy and protecting your partner and the citizens of Ohio. Your watch has now ended, rest well. You are gone but never forgotten.”
What a beautiful final tribute to this heroic K9. Rest in peace, Tommy. Thank you for your years of protecting people.
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