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.