Heartbreaking Photo Shows Officer Saying Goodbye to Dying K9 Partner
It is no secret that humans and their dogs have a special bond. The animals are not called man’s best friend for no reason.
But when those dogs spend countless hours training and serving alongside police officers, they create an even greater connection.
K9 partners are trained to hold a specific role such as detecting illegal substances, patrolling and tracking evidence or individuals.
These police dogs accompany their handlers on traffic stops, responding to assistance calls and even apprehending suspects.
A K9 officer is the dog’s partner at work and at home, so the K9 forms a bond with the officer’s family as well.
The officer and his dog experience life together, the good times and the bad, as they serve alongside each other.
So, you can imagine the pain and heartbreak handler Chula Vista Officer Chancellor and his family felt after K9 Griffen passed away last week.
K9 Griffen was a 7-year-old Belgian Malinois who suffered from an undisclosed medical condition.
Officer Chancellor and Griffen worked the night shift in Chula Vista, and the dog made frequent appearances at public events.
“It’s hard to overstate the bond that a K-9 and his handler have when working long hours in dangerous situations,” Chula Vista Police Department stated. “CVPD’s law enforcement family extends deepest sympathies to his partner officer.
“On behalf of all the women and men at the Chula Vista Police Department, Thank You Griffen for your service, you will be missed.”
Although it is hard to describe the bond between Officer Chancellor and Griffen, one picture that is being circulated shows a pretty clear depiction of their connection as the officer mourns Griffen’s death.
On Friday, CVPD lost a trusted partner, K9 Griffen. It was a hard day for all of us, especially Griffen’s handler and best friend, Officer Chancellor. May you #RIP, Griffen. Thank you for your service to our Department and the city of #ChulaVista. -1180 pic.twitter.com/sdik99O4hN
— Chula Vista Police Department (@ChulaVistaPD) March 25, 2018
The love between this officer and his beloved partner is clear as Officer Chancellor hugs Griffen goodbye. Chancellor’s family and other members of the K9 program were also present when Griffen took his last breath.
Our hearts go out to this officer, his family, and the Chula Vista Police Department during this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Griffen.
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