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K9s Of Valor

@k9sofvalor

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From time to time, people tell me, “lighten up, it’s just a dog,” or “that’s a lot of money for just a dog.” They don’t understand the distance travelled, the time spent, or the costs involved for “just a dog.” Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just a dog.” Many hours have passed and my only company was “just a dog,” but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by “just a dog,” and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of “just a dog” gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day. If you, too, think it’s “just a dog,” then you probably understand phrases like “just a friend,” “just a sunrise,” or “just a promise.” “Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. “Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of “just a dog” I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, it’s not “just a dog” but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. “Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day. I hope that someday they can understand that its’ not “just a dog” but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “just a man” or “just a woman.” So the next time you hear the phrase “just a dog,” just smile, because they “just don’t understand.” K9SOFVALOR.ORG/DONATE OR LINK IN BIO #k9 #valor #justadog #k9themovie1989 by @k9sofvalor
🚨 K9 Kjeld Saved by @k9storminc Vest Your Donations Provided 🚨 These are your donations at work! Last night night K9 Kjeld of the @seblasd was shot while searching for a wanted suspect. At some point during the search, the suspect emerged and opened fire on deputies, and K9 Kjeld took the bullets meant for deputues. Kjeld was struck at least once and immediately rushed to a local veterinary hospital. After X-rays and a full exam, it was confirmed that his @k9storminc Patrol SWAT ballistic vest your donations provided last year took the brunt of the bullets impact. We could not be happier for Kjeld and his handler knowing Kjeld was able to go home. This is exactly why we do what we do. Knowing a serious injury or worse was prevented because of Kjeld having the proper protective gear is priceless. Thank you all for being a part of our mission. Your Donations are making a huge impact all around the country, and they are saving lives. Feel better soon, Kjeld! We are so proud of you, buddy! 💪🐾🐾 Keep crushing evil out there guys! And thank you to Jim and everyone at @k9storminc for producing such an amazing piece of equipment that keeps these heroes with 4 legs alive. Thank you for helping get them home safe. To Help Protect a K9 on our waiting list, please visit the links in our bio. #crushevil #cak9strong #k9kjeld #lasdseb #Valor ##StormThroughAnything by @k9sofvalor
Yesterday, the @lasdhq honored K9 Kjeld for his heroic actions last week. As you may know, K9 Kjeld was shot while assisting deputies search for a wanted suspect. During the search, Kjeld alerted to a tarp where the suspect was hiding. Deputies gave commands to the suspect to come out, when suddenly the suspect emerged and opened fire on deputies striking K9 Kjeld. However, Kjeld's @k9storminc vest stopped the bullet. His vest saved his life. We wanted to take a moment to thank Sheriff Luna, Deputy Williams and the department for their kind words yesterday. We also wanted to share some clips of the press conference so you can hear Deputy Steve Williams talk about the incident himself. We also wanted to let you all know that K9 Kjeld has already received his replacement vest. In fact, K9 Storm had a replacement vest out to him within 36 hours of the incident. We also wanted to say thank you to the generous donors who have reached out and offered to help vest the remaining LASD SEB K9s. We were able to order another one of their K9s a vest yesterday. While we hate this happened to Kjeld and Deputy Williams, the outpouring of kindness has been inspiring. We hope this demonstrates why ballistic vests are so important and why your donations are so incredibly important. Nothing we do would be possible without you, our donors and supporters. And of course a very special Thank You to @k9storminc for making a product that keeps our four legged heroes alive. If you would like to help a K9 on our waiting list, please visit the link in our bio. #StrongerTogether #K9Kjeld #CAK9Strong #stormthroughanything #valor by @k9sofvalor
K9 Apart EOW: 10-25-2026 Some dogs leave paw prints on your heart. Others leave a legacy that reaches farther than anyone could imagine. K9 Apart did both. Yesterday, retired Summerville Police K9 Apart passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service, loyalty and love. Apart began his law enforcement career alongside Officer Tara Burke in 2016, serving the community of Summerville, South Carolina. Together, they became an incredible team, even receiving national recognition through *Live PD*, where they helped show the public another side of police K9s and the extraordinary bonds they share with their handlers. Apart's dedication didn't end with his police career. Even in retirement, he continued training and earned recognition in working dog sports. He was so much more than the badge he wore. I met Tara and Apart in 2017 while working at K9s of Valor. They were among the first police K9 teams I ever knew, and their kindness, friendship, and willingness to share their experiences helped shape my understanding of these incredible dogs. I loved sending Apart and his unit toys, goodie boxes, and even ridiculous birthday hats. Tara would send pictures, cards, and birthday wishes with Apart's paw print. Those little things meant the world to me then, and they mean even more today. Apart was one of the dogs who helped inspire the work I continue doing nearly a decade later. His influence reached far beyond the community he served, and I will forever be grateful that our paths crossed. Tara, my heart is absolutely shattered for you and your family. Thank you for sharing your incredible boy with me and so many others. Thank you for the friendship, the memories, and for allowing me to love Apart from miles away. Rest easy, dear Apart. I wish I could send you just one more birthday hat. Your work here is done, but the difference you made will live on for years to come. You will always have a special place in my heart. (And Tara, I know his long distance bestie Landon was waiting to greet him at the 🌈 bridge. ) by @k9sofvalor
🚨 Breaking News 🚨 Over the years we have written more EOWs for K9s who have died in hot cars than we care to even remember. With the advances in technology and affordability of the systems on the market, as well as grants and non-profit assistance, there is no reason why every K9 vehicle should not have a heat alarm. Most recently our dear friends at @throwawaydogsproject suffered the horrible loss of K9 Ender, a K9 they donated to the Dorchester County MD Sheriff's Office. Ender died in a hot patrol vehicle in his handler's driveway, off duty. This was the final straw for so many of us in the K9 community. So we at @globalworkingdog have decided to do something about it, starting in the state where Ender tragically died this summer, Maryland. Our CEO, Christina Roof, has drafted legislative language to amend current Maryland state laws in regards to LE and Fire K9 vehicles. This legislation will be introduced by members of the MD House and Senate. ⚖️ Part of the legislation states: "Each law enforcement agency shall ensure all K9 transport vehicles are equipped with operational heat detection alarms, conduct weekly testing, and maintain records for at least 3 years..." as well as other key factors in preventing the deaths and heat illnesses suffered by working dogs in hot vehicles. And while we understand accidents such as mechanical failures do happen, very often these deaths are preventable, as the investigation states in Ender's death. We are honored to partner with @carol_throwawaydogs on such an important issue. And it seems only fitting the legislation will be called Ender's Law in loving memory of an amazing K9. We look forward to working with MD State legislators and our non-profit partners in getting this life-saving piece of legislation signed into law. Stay tuned for updates... by @k9sofvalor
K9 Mattis EOW: 8-9-2025 We all know it’s part of the contract we make with God when they come into our lives, but we’re never truly prepared. Somewhere deep down, we cling to the hope that ours will be the exception. But in our hearts, we know the truth... they are only ever on loan, and the day will come when He calls them home. And when that day comes, we send them back with gratitude, love and the unshakable knowing that we were the lucky ones to have been theirs. Please keep Mark and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Rest Easy K9 Mattis 🇺🇸 We will never forget you. You have inspired so many. ♥️ When tomorrow starts without me And I’m not here to see If the sun should rise and find your eyes Are filled with tears for me I wish so much you wouldn’t cry The way you did today While thinking of the many things We didn’t get to say I know how much you love me As much as I love you And each time you think of me I know you’ll miss me too But when tomorrow starts without me Please try to understand That an angel came and called my name And took me by the hand And said my place was ready In Heaven far above And that I’d have to leave behind All those I dearly love But when I walked through Heaven’s gate I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me From His great golden throne He said this is eternity And all I promised you Today your life on earth is past But here it starts anew I promise no tomorrow For today will always last And since each day’s the same way There’s no longing for the past So when tomorrow starts without me Don’t think we’re far apart For every time you think of me I’m right here in your heart. by @k9sofvalor
What are the Penalties for Harming or Killing a Federal Law Enforcement Animal❓️ 🚨IN SUMMARY: It is a federal crime to willfully and maliciously harm, disable, or kill any animal used by a federal law enforcement agency, whether the animal is actively working or off duty in a kennel or stable. This includes dogs, horses, or other animals employed by agencies such as: * U.S. Marshals Service * FBI * DEA * ATF * Homeland Security / CBP * Federal Bureau of Prisons * U.S. Secret Service * Department of Defense * U.S. Capitol Police * TSA * and any federal agency utilizing working animals in official functions. ⚖️ Penalties: • Up to 10 years in federal prison • Fines up to \$250,000** (standard for Class C felonies under federal law) • Restitution is mandatory 📖 THE ACTUAL LAW: 18 U.S. CH65 Code § 1368 - Harming animals used in law enforcement (a) Whoever willfully and maliciously harms any police animal, or attempts or conspires to do so, shall be fined under this title and imprisoned not more than 1 year. If the offense permanently disables or disfigures the animal, or causes serious bodily injury to or the death of the animal, the maximum term of imprisonment shall be 10 years. (b) In this section, the term “police animal” means a dog or horse employed by a Federal agency (whether in the executive, legislative, or judicial branch) for the principal purpose of aiding in the detection of criminal activity, enforcement of laws, or apprehension of criminal offenders. ((Added Pub. L. 106–254, § 2(a), Aug. 2, 2000, 114 Stat. 638; amended Pub. L. 107–273, div. B, title IV, § 4003(a)(4), Nov. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 1811.)) 🚨🚨 WHY CAN’T STATE & LOCAL LE ANIMALS BE PROTECTED UNDER THIS LAW? 🇺🇸➡️ Because of the 10th Amendment of the Constitution: States Rights. Very broadly put, the federal government cannot dictate how state or local law enforcement agencies operate on a daily basis. This includes how they train, deploy, or punish crimes involving their own police K9s or horses. 📢That being said we strongly believe state & local LE animals attached to federal task forces SHOULD be protected under this federal law. We have been hard at work. Stay tuned... by @k9sofvalor
Yesterday K9 Coba, along with 21 other law enforcement K9s were honored for making the ultimate sacrifice in 2024. The kind of sacrifice that allows their human counterparts to go home to their families, allows citizens to be rescued and sleep a little more soundly. The kind of sacrifice that will be forever etched in the memories of everyone on the scene, especially their handlers. These dogs gave their lives so that others may live. These dogs served with honor and distinction, and never once hesitated to give their lives. These dogs are what selfless valor truly looks like. Coba was killed on June 11, 2024, while he assisted his SLED Team in apprehending a wanted fugitive. While no weapon was ever seen, the suspect pulled out a gun and shot Coba in the head as Coba apprehended him. And Coba, being the true badass he was, never let go of his bite. Coba undoubtedly saved his handler's life, team members' lives and the lives of countless other officers and agents on scene that day. Coba was well trained and wearing his @k9storminc vest that day, however some wounds are not survivable. Coba is only one example of the loyalty and bravery demonstrated by the 21 K9s who lost their lives in 2024. These dog's service and sacrifice will live on forever at the Law Enforcement K9 Memorial in DC, as well as in the hearts of all of us who were blessed enough to know them. I am honored to call Agent @colepowell , Coba's handler, a friend. The courage and grace both he and his family have shown throughout everything is truly inspiring. This video has pictures from yesterday, as well as he and Cole working and the funeral service. The world is a better place that Coba was in it for 4 years. We truly owe him and the others are undying gratitude and support. ⚖️ Coba's sacrifice has been the inspiration for a piece of legislation that I and a few others have been working on. We hope we can change many federal and state laws to protect these teams.🇺🇸 2024 K9 LODDs: K9 Nyx K9 Maze K9 Leo K9 Luca K9 Raiden K9 Rivan K9 Dax K9 Max K9 Coba K9 Horus K9 Wick K9 Archer K9 Vader K9 Odin K9 Dolar K9 Mikka K9 Riddick K9 Kodak K9 Draco K9 Titan K9 Bumi Say their names. 🇺🇸 by @k9sofvalor
K9 Rico EOW: 4-26-2025 The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office and the Armendariz family are mourning the loss of one of their own, 8 year old Retired K9 Rico. Rico passed away after a valiant fight against an aggressive autoimmune disease. K9 Rico was born in Holland on May 7th, 2016. The dual-purpose Malinois was trained in patrol and explosive detection. Rico loved to work! He was a hard-hitting good boy known for always getting his man and never giving up. He worked loyally by the side of his handler, Sgt. Alberto Armendariz, from the moment he stepped foot in the US until July 2024. Rico was also attached to the Maricopa County SWAT Team, as well as a highly skilled fugitive task force. He made Maricopa County a safer place. Rico also loved his downtime. At home, he loved to swim in the family pool with his brother Kento and just hang out with his family. Rico was truly one of a kind. And while he may be gone from sight, he will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of everyone (including myself) who was lucky enough to know him. Please join me in keeping the Armendariz family and MCSO in your thoughts and prayers during this extremely difficult time. Rest Easy K9 Rico 🇺🇸 We will never forget you good boy. 💙 "When I go, don't learn to live without me. Just learn to live with my love in a different way. And if you need to see me, close your eyes or look in your shadow when the sunshines, for I am there. Sit with me in the quiet and you will know, I did not leave. You see, there is no leaving when a soul is blended with another. When I go, don't learn to live without me, just learn to look for me in the moments, for I will be there." by @k9sofvalor
🚨 K9 Bane Found Dead in his Igloo Doghouse, Severely Decomposed 🚨 "K9 Bane was living outside with no food, water, or shade,” the affidavit stated." Two Greene County Arkansas detention officers have been arrested after an investigation was launched into the death of a retired police K9. The owner of the retired K9 Bane, Ethan Huffstetler, along with his roommate, Payton Johnson, both Greene County Detention Center officers, have been arrested on charges of animal cruelty. K9 Bane, who served the Greene County Sheriff’s Office for six years, was certified in drug detection, tracking and apprehension. He retired in January 2024 and was adopted by Huffstetler's father and then became his responsibility. Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder, said the department received an anonymous tip online on April 13, 2025, saying that Bane "was being left outside on a chain with no access to food, water, or shade" and that he was underweight. During the investigation, detectives discovered K9 Bane dead in his igloo doghouse, severely decomposed. Huffstetler told detectives that he had not checked on Bane in four or five days and that he had no food for him. Johnson, who also owns a dog, told detectives that he saw Bane a week earlier and did not know about his condition. "Due to the advanced state of decomposition of retired K9 Bane and the close proximity of the kennel to the residence, it is not feasible that Johnson was unaware of retired K9 Bane’s condition." Huffstetler and Johnson now face charges of "Aggravated Cruelty to a Dog, Cat, or Equine" and "Right to be Accompanied by Service Animal — Penalty and Restitution for Killing or Injuring a Service Animal or Search and Rescue Dog," both Class D felonies. A District Judge has set Huffstetler’s bond at $20,000 cash only and Johnson’s bond at $10,000 cash or surety. The two are being held in a neighboring county's facility. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone w/ information is urged to contact the Greene County CID at 870-239-6343. "Our Retired K9 & MWD Heroes deserve better. As a nation, we must do better. Laws & protocols need to be changed & updated now. What are we waiting for?" C. Roof Rest Easy K9 Bane by @k9sofvalor
K9 Nemo EOW: 2-21-2025 The Williamson County Texas Sheriff's Office and the Dirner family are mourning the loss of one of their own, 14 year old Retired K9 Nemo. Nemo passed away peacefully by the side of his handler, Retired Sgt Brian Dirner. Nemo served the citizens of Williamson County from 2013 to 2021. He was a dual-purpose K9 & was responsible for getting countless bad guys & narcotics off the streets. Nemo was also the department's SWAT dog & was responsible for assisting deputies in numerous high-risk deployments. You may also recognize Nemo from the TV Show Live PD. Sgt Dirner & K9 Nemo were regulars on the hit show. And just as important, Nemo was a beloved member of the Dirner family and a friend to many, including myself. Having met Nemo several times, I can tell you he was a very special dog. He had this amazing switch where he could go from bite work to being pet like it was nothing. His temperament and skill were like no other. Please join me in keeping the Dirner family & WilCo in your thoughts & prayers during this very difficult time. Rest Easy Nemo 🇺🇲 We will never forget you good boy. 💙 When tomorrow starts without me And I’m not here to see If the sun should rise and find your eyes Are filled with tears for me I wish so much you wouldn’t cry The way you did today While thinking of the many things We didn’t get to say I know how much you love me As much as I love you And each time you think of me I know you’ll miss me too But when tomorrow starts without me Please try to understand That an angel came and called my name And took me by the hand And said my place was ready In Heaven far above And that I’d have to leave behind All those I dearly love But when I walked through Heaven’s gate I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me From His great golden throne He said this is eternity And all I promised you Today your life on earth is past But here it starts anew I promise no tomorrow For today will always last And since each day’s the same way There’s no longing for the past So when tomorrow starts without me Don’t think we’re far apart For every time you think of me I’m right there in your heart by @k9sofvalor
K9 Hurricane EOW: 2-12-2025 The United States Secret Service and the Mirarchi family are mourning the loss of one of their own, Retired K9 Hurricane. 15 year old Hurricane passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by those who loved him most. Hurricane became a member of the Secret Service's elite Emergency Response Team in 2012. He & his handler, Officer Marshal Mirarchi, were tasked with protecting the President, VP, their families, and visiting dignitaries. Hurricane had an amazing career. Notably, on October 22, 2014, he protected President Obama & the First Family from an intruder who had scaled the perimeter fence of the White House & was heading towards the residence. Hurricane apprehended the man & held him until officers arrested him. Hurricane was awarded numerous medals for his heroic actions, including, but not limited to: • USSS Award for Merit, DHS Award for Valor, PDSA Order of Merit, AMC Top Dog, Animal's in War and Peace Distinguished Service Medal, Department of Homeland Security's Secretary's Award for Valor Hurricane went on to serve by Officer Mirarchi's side until his retirement on September 20, 2016. He was adopted by Marshall & enjoyed his retirement as a beloved member of the Mirarchi family. But Hurricane's life of service didn't end there. He went on to be the inspiration & face of Hurricane's Heroes, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping retired working dogs. To say Hurricane's legacy will live on forever would be an understatement. Hurricane not only saved lives during his career, but he helped better the lives of working dogs during his retirement. He also played a huge role in helping to educate Americans on the importance of dogs in law enforcement. And just as importantly, he was a beloved member of the Mirarchi family. Even though it's been less than 24 hours since he passed, the hole his absence has caused in the hearts of his family & friends is immeasurable. To know Hurricane was to love him. Please join me in keeping the Mirarchi family & his colleagues at USSS in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Rest easy good boy. Thank you for your service & sacrifice. We will #NeverForget you🇺🇲 by @k9sofvalor

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