When Judge, a retired police dog in West Deptford, New Jersey had to be put to sleep dozens of police officers turned out to show their respect and offer their support. Judge apparently had severe Cushings Disease, the same disease our sweet Lady struggled with.
Police dogs are extremely well trained, and the danger they face in the line of duty is no less just because they view much of what they do as a game. I know the officers who work with them value their abilities greatly and view them as comrades in arms.
I know police across the nation have come under a great deal of criticism of late, but I remain undeterred in my admiration for the men, women, and dogs who willingly put themselves in harm’s way every day to keep us safe and enforce the laws we rely on to hold society together. Do they make mistakes? Absolutely. Under the conditions they work in it’s a credit to their restraint and dedication there aren’t more. Nearly no one is happy to see a cop.
Are there bad cops? Sure. But that there are people willing to even be cops is an amazing thing, really. It takes a special type of person, and I for one am glad there are still people willing to be police officers.
So I’m not surprised that Judge was given the farewell salute he was. Only cops truly appreciate what it is to be a cop, and I’m certain Judge was accepted as “one of them.”
I’m grateful for Judge, Cpl. Michael Franks, his handler, and all police men and women who put themselves out there day after day. To all of you, my deepest thanks.