A police dog from Canton, Ohio is being remembered for his bravery and service after he passed away from his injuries after being shot three times in the line of duty.
Jethro and his handler Officer Ryan Davis were responding to a burglary alarm with fellow offiers when they confronted a 22-year-old armed robber and gunfire erupted. Jethro was rushed to a vet hospital after being shot. Although none of Jethro’s vital organs were hit, unfortunately one of the bullets hit his snout and resulted in the brain trauma.
Jethro and Officer Ryan Davis in a picture taken last week. Photo credit: Canton Police Department
The burglar was arrested after being shot in the leg while trying to escape.
The Police K-9 Association posted that it was tough to get Jethro to rest while in hospital, because “He’s just trying to beat this thing the way he’s used to, by fighting.” Jethro was given a sedative to help him rest but passed away on Sunday morning.
Photo credit: Canton Police Department
“It is with heavy hearts that we must tell you all that we lost Jethro,” the Canton Police Department posted on Facebook January 10, 2016. “He took a sudden turn for the worse and has passed.”
Officer Davis was by Jethro’s side when he died. Davis has been with Jethro since he was a puppy.
Photo credit: Canton Police Department
Officers said that Jethro’s heroic actions on Saturday saved lives. “We believe, and our Chief has even said, that he believes that Jethro saved officers that day,” said K9 Trainer and Officer Eric Stanbro.
Photo credit: Police K9 Association / Facebook
In a video posted by a friend, Jethro was seen being saluted as he was carried out of the animal hospital to an awaiting vehicle on Sunday evening.
Someone else posted a tribute video to Jethro honoring the dog’s bravery and service to the community.
Rest in Peace, Jethro.
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