When it comes to love and loyalty, no one can beat a dog.
That is why they deserve the same loyalty and love from their human.
Seven years ago, Officer Ryan Davis and his K9 partner, Jethro of the Canton Police Department received a call about a burglary at Fishers Foods.
As Jethro entered the facility, Davis heard four gunshots.
He immediately called 9-1-1 as he saw his partner’s body lying on the ground.
“Shots fired! Shots fired! My partner has been shot,” Davis said to the operator.
They rushed Jethro to the hospital, and as expected of him, he fought bravely for his life.
“I’d trade places with him in a heartbeat,” said Davis.
Unfortunately, after 32 hours, the brave hero dog passed away.
He was more than just heartbroken. The news devastated him and his family.
They would never see their beloved Jethro.
Jethro came into their lives at just eight weeks old.
He was a playful puppy that became their family pet.
When he turned a year and a half, he started training to be the brave partner of Officer Davis.
Jethro was very good at his job.
He was smart and agile, and he was dedicated to his craft.
Davis and Jethro were a great team.
No wonder Jethro’s passing crushed Davis so much.
The entire team made sure that his funeral was a major event, fit for a canine police hero.
He received a full police funeral on what could have been his third birthday.
As days passed, Davis found it increasingly difficult to accept the fact that his pet, his comrade, had been shot and had lost his life in the line of duty.
After some time, Davis had to find another partner, another canine that will replace Jethro.
K9s4COPS Foundation in Houston facilitated the audition of more than a dozen candidates for the vacant position.
They had to undergo tests to prove that they can be assigned to the field and are ready for the actual work needed.
It was hard for Davis to open up and accept a new dog, and it was understandable.
Tuko, the German Shepard, is skilled at apprehending criminals.
Then, there is Joker, Belgian Malinois, who is high-spirited, agile, and always ready to serve.
Lastly, there was Cenzo, another Belgian Malinois, is very good at tracking.
Each one posed unique talents and skills, but one dog caught his heart.
He chose Tuko, the German Shepard.
“For me, the bond was there,” said Davis.
Indeed, Davis was happy to welcome the new member of the police force, Officer Tuko.
Even though he’s excited to work with Tuko, he knows, in his heart, that Jethro can never be replaced.
“There’s always going to be a hole,” Davis said.
Jethro, the hero dog, saved Davis’ life, stayed faithful to his pledge to be a police dog, and most especially, left memories that everyone close to him will treasure.
Fly high, Jethro, the hero dog.
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