In the early days of friendship, those when we were learn to dance without stepping on each others toes, there are times when we disagree. We learn feelings not common to human companions, or animals with their own kind, only combinations such pairings between man and their animal friends. We adapt to each other’s strengths,
and yes, weaknesses.
Three days after being paired with my partner there was talk of sending him back to Holland, from where he had come. It seemed he had an eye condition that would worsen with time. Phone calls were made, and an element of trust ensued; a guarantee of six working years on my partners eyes provided me with nine and a half years of uncompromising trust, companionship, and a four legged friend to hold up to any of my human companions.
We are all put upon this earth for a purpose, some longer than others. In early June 1994, God provided me with a companion like no other, one to understand who I am, to look into my inner being. We provided each other with loyalty,,,,, and love.
In those early days, while “learning to dance”, my canine companion successfully tracked, and allowed for arrests of subjects, which could not have been accomplished without him. As an experienced handler, I had learned the most valuable commodity a canine “team” has, is trust in each other. Several months into our learning experience, while tracking an armed assailant, I partially extended that trust to my new furry friend. Although in his own way he was telling me where the wanted felon was, I had my doubts, but I released the tether from the collar and told him to show me. He dove into the water and less than six feet in front of me the assailant stood up, with my partner attached to his arm. I never knew he was there.
While en-route to the hospital for treatment, the arrestee told the transporting deputy he would have killed me had it not been for the dog. I took it with the usual grain of salt until the following day when our crime scene technician recovered a .44 magnum revolver from the very spot in the pond where he had been. I turned and made my vow to him, that as long as he should live he would never be in need.
I kept my promise.
It is obvious to those of us in the business that many of us in law enforcement, are able to return safely to their families due a police dog.
I am sure my partner, RUGER, is roaming the golden streets with the respect of others already there. He has fulfilled his duties here and has moved on to a better place.
February 06, 2004, retired Polk County Sheriffs canine Ruger, was diagnosed with inoperable cancer, and regretfully, was euthanized. The following is a timeless poem of which my Ruger certainly deserves dedication:
“The Working Dog”
My eyes are your eyes,
To watch and protect you and yours.
My ears are your ears,
To hear and detect evil minds in the dark.
My nose is your nose,
To scent the invader of your domain.
And so you may live, my life is also yours.
Author Unknown
Your partner in service & life, Jimbo.
| RUGER |
| 6, Feb 2004 |
| James F Bryan |