In January of 2015, one of the most valuable officers of the Mequon Police Department was laid to rest.
Vero was the department's very first K9 officer. For more than seven years, Vero worked alongside his handler, Officer John Hoell. As a team, they located more than $100,000 in illicit drugs, tracked 110 missing suspects, conducted 49 building searches, participated in 69 drug sweeps in schools throughout the metro area, and made 328 arrests.
Officer Vero retired the previous August, and the Mequon Police Chief knew this sad day loomed ahead. Vero began suffering from health problems, and it's common for K9s to lose their drive to live after leaving the service. Officer John Hoell agreed to let him go and be put to sleep.
In the video below, you'll see a quiet procession of police cars leading to the animal hospital, and a somber salute as Officer Hoell escorts Vero into the building. Fellow K9-handling officers brought their dogs to show support, and the tears began to flow. It's incredibly sad, but also wonderful to see Vero so loved and respected.
“They end up being part of your family, just a like a child,” said another K9-handling officer. The bond between handlers and service, assistance, and/or soldier dogs is so strong that it's detailed in an upcoming movie, Max.
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