Posted November 1, 2023 by: Admin #Animals

Police dogs are an indispensable and cherished asset within any law enforcement agency. They play a pivotal role in various police operations, including the crucial task of locating missing individuals. To their fellow officers, they are not just loyal companions but also esteemed colleagues.

When the time comes for these dedicated canines to bid farewell and cross the rainbow bridge, it is only fitting that they receive a dignified and heartfelt farewell that acknowledges their years of dedication and heroism. This is precisely what a terminally ill K9 recently experienced, as fellow officers paid a touching tribute to their faithful comrade.

Farewell to a Heroic German Shepherd

A German shepherd by the name of Candy had been an integral part of the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office since 2014, serving as the department’s inaugural narcotics detection dog. During nearly a decade of service, Candy carried out over 2,900 operational searches, contributing to the seizure of an impressive 278 pounds of illegal narcotics, as reported by the sheriff’s office.

What set Candy apart was the extraordinary bond she shared with her handler, Master Deputy II Anthony “Tony” Natalzia. Natalzia fondly recalled, “She went everywhere with me. You see these dogs more than you see your family.”

However, as of late, Natalzia noticed a decline in the 11-year-old dog’s health. Candy developed a noticeable limp and lost her appetite. Concerned, Natalzia took her to the veterinarian, where a grim diagnosis was delivered—Candy had cancer that had metastasized throughout her body. Natalzia lamented, “It was in her lungs, it was everywhere. The vet said there was nothing they could do, and I couldn’t even comprehend it—we had only gone for a routine visit.”

A Heartfelt Farewell

With the terminal cancer advancing, Natalzia knew that the most humane decision was to take Candy to the vet to be euthanized. But before saying their final goodbyes, Candy was given the opportunity to bid farewell to her police colleagues.

On a poignant Monday, officers organized a ceremonial farewell walkout for Candy. The hallways of the Virginia Beach Correctional Center were filled with officers who saluted the retiring K9 as she left work for the last time. The emotions were palpable as many of the officers bid their tearful farewells.

Candy clutched her beloved tennis ball throughout the entire procession. Following the touching walkout, Natalzia drove Candy to the veterinarian, where she peacefully passed away.

A Bittersweet Retirement

Police K9 diagnosed with cancer gets saluted by her entire team in her final walkout 🐕🚨
byu/Soloflow786 inMadeMeSmile

Candy was scheduled to retire this year, and Natalzia expressed his regret that they couldn’t enjoy more post-retirement time together. He shared, “You think you’re going to have some time with your dog after they retire, so I feel cheated on that end of it. But as a responsible handler, there was no way I could let her suffer for my own selfishness.”

While the memory of Candy will forever hold a special place in Natalzia’s heart, he is now embarking on a new journey as the handler of a K9 named Pablo, aspiring to build a bond as strong as the one he shared with Candy.

It was an incredibly moving and heartfelt send-off for this heroic canine. Rest in peace, Candy. ❤️💙