Berea is only one town over from me... Poor pup...
Berea: Police dog dies
by Jaime Anton
Monday July 07, 2008, 8:30 AM
The Berea police department's K-9 unit, Ciro, had to be put to sleep Saturday, June 28 soon after being diagnosed with cancer.
Just two weeks ago, the 5-year-old German shepherd had a fairly routine veterinary appointment for a cut on his lip. While there the vet noticed swollen lymph glands. Tests showed it was an aggressive form of cancer, lymphatic cancer.
"There was nothing the vet could do," Police Chief Mark Schultz said.
Ciro's health deteriorated rapidly.
Patrolman Tim Milter was Ciro's handler, and the two were practically inseparable. He was going to make the decision Monday to put the dog down but Ciro's condition worsened Saturday.
"They are there with you all the time. It's just like a family member. It's almost like losing one of my kids," Milter said. "It's been tough on the family."
Ciro was Berea's third canine unit since 1989. He was trained in criminal apprehension, searching, tracking and drug detection. Milter also handled the previous K-9 unit, Ben. The first dog was Max.
Schultz said most K-9 dogs work between seven and 10 years after which they become pets.
Milter has already been approached by businesses wanting to donate for a replacement K-9. He has been granted permission to proceed with fundraising. The cost of another dog with training is about $8,000. Milter is expected to have another K-9 partner in a couple of months.
He thanked the doctors at Big Creek Animal Hospital where Ciro was treated.
"They were very, very helpful," Milter said.
The police department will not be doing anything special, as far as a funeral.
"Just have people remember him how he was," Milter said.
Any businesses wishing to donate, can contact Milter at the police station at (440) 826-5871.