Heartfelt Farewell for Police Dog After Terminal Diagnosis
Irreplaceable Helpers
Police dogs and K9 units play a vital role in police teams around the world. Their keen senses and unconditional loyalty make them ideal partners for performing tasks that go beyond human capabilities.
From tracking down missing persons to detecting illegal substances, these animals are true heroes.
Since 2014, German Shepherd Candy has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of her community as a member of the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office.
In nearly ten years with the Sheriff’s Office, Candy has conducted over 2900 operational searches, removing hazardous materials from the streets and indirectly helping save countless lives.
Her keen nose and persistence led to the accurate detection of a staggering 278 pounds of banned substances, a feat that demonstrates undeniably how crucial and essential her contribution was to the team’s daily work.
A Unique Bond
However, a police dog is not only considered a close working partner; she is often seen as an equal member of the team, carrying out her duties unconditionally and with great enthusiasm, and even as part of the family for her handler, with whom she builds a special bond and becomes irreplaceable in their professional and personal lives.
Candy’s handler, Master Deputy II Anthony “Tony” Natalzia, had an especially close relationship with her, with the two of them becoming inseparable and Candy accompanying him wherever he went, whether it was on long days on patrol, at special community events, or even just during their time off together.
Natalzia, in an interview, was moved to say that you see these police dogs more often than you see your family, because of the intense bond between the dog and her handler. This shows the deep emotional connection that comes from training, trust and cooperation between humans and animals in law enforcement.
It is a deep relationship built on the pillars of mutual respect, trust and dependence, which makes the loss of such a partner all the more palpable and painful.
The diagnose
At the age of 11, Candy began to show signs of decreased energy, which drastically changed her life.
Candy showed decreased activity, altered gait, and loss of appetite, which was concerning to her owner. The routine vet visit quickly changed when it became apparent that Candy had a condition that affected her entire body and required immediate medical attention.
Natalzia was surprised by the diagnosis when the doctor told her: “It’s all over her lungs,” he shared in shock, leaving her with a feeling of disbelief and fear.
Candy’s deteriorating health forced Natalzia and his team to make a difficult decision, as it was clear that nothing more could be done to save her. Their hopes of spending more time with her were dashed.
The realization that Candy was not feeling well led to the loving decision to spare her further discomfort.
A Dignified Farewell
Despite Candy’s difficult farewell, her last moment was celebrated in style with a ceremony before she went to the vet.
“Officers formed a guard of honor and saluted the retiring K9 dog, while Candy stood with her favorite tennis ball.”
It was a moving moment of honor and respect for an animal who had dedicated his life to the community.
The officers were emotional as they greeted their colleague for the last time.
After the emotional farewell, Natalzia took Candy to the vet for a thorough treatment, where the little brown Labrador received all the necessary care to recover from her injuries.
It was a fitting end for a loyal four-legged friend who has provided invaluable service to both the sheriff’s office and the community for many years.
A fresh start
Despite missing Candy, Natalzia is given new opportunities and a fresh start as the handler of the K9 dog Pablo, allowing her to continue her passion for working with dogs and fulfilling her duties as part of the team.
He hopes to build a strong bond with Pablo, similar to the one he had with Candy, whose legacy of loyalty, courage and service will live on forever in the memories of those who worked with her.
The moving story of Candy, a loyal police dog who shows his courage and dedication time and again, impressively illustrates how essential and valuable police dogs are for safety and justice in our society.
They are not simply animals that carry out orders; they are brave, loyal and unconditional companions who are completely devoted to the welfare and protection of others, regardless of the circumstances.
Candy’s spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of her colleagues and in the training of future K9 units, where her influence and memories will endure.
Most important points:
- “Candy performed over 2900 surgeries and recovered 278 pounds of illegal substances.”
- Candy and Natalzia had a close bond of respect and emotion.
- Candy was given a ceremonial farewell by her colleagues for her long service.
- A Legacy That Lives On: While Candy is remembered, Pablo stands ready for the next generation of K9 units.
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