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“I could not have asked for a better partner or friend. May you rest easy and wait for me at that sacred bridge. I will be there my friend. I will be there. I will never forget you or our accomplishments. You made me a better person, a better handler, and a better cop. Till we meet again kai. I love you and will miss you daily.”
These touching words were made by K9 handler and police officer Jamie LeBretton on Facebook last Friday, along with a photo of his devoted dog, Kaiser, a Plymouth, Massachusetts police dog.
The 2-and-a-half year old German Shepherd was partnered with LeBretton in September of 2011 when his original family donated him to the force due to his naturally protective personality. After nearly 2 years of dedication, bravery, and heroic service to the people of Plymouth, Kaiser was retired from the force and laid to rest to end his suffering from severe liver and kidney disease.
The following statement was made by LeBretton to friends of the Plymouth Police Working Dog Foundation,
It is with deep regret and sorrow that I announce the retirement of my partner K-9 Kaiser. Kaiser was recently diagnosed with severe kidney disease/failure leaving his health to decline rapidly. Kaiser battled this disease with vigor and toughness like I have never seen before. Although, as of late, the disease has taken the upper hand forcing him out of his craft and ultimately out of this world. Kaiser taught me more about myself and my profession than I could have ever taught him. I feel privileged to have had a front row seat to witness his bravery and heroic actions while serving the people of Plymouth and my brothers and sisters in blue. Although his career was short lived, he made a huge impact that will never be forgotten. Kaiser loved being a Police Dog and I will miss him dearly. Out of love and respect for Kaiser, and with the input from our excellent vet, trainer, and family, I have made the heart wrenching decision to end Kaiser’s suffering. K-9 Kaiser will be laid to rest this Friday at 1pm at Angel View Pet Cemetery in Middleboro.
Fellow Plymouth officers lined the streets and sidewalk outside of the Court Street Animal Hospital to pay final respects to Kaiser as he made the solemn walk alongside LeBretton.
LeBretton was touched by the outpouring of love and support from fellow officers, saying “Never in my career have I ever been so proud. You outdid yourselves today. I could not have asked for a better send-off.” He told the saluting men and women in blue, “Kaiser truly was part of the department and loved being a police dog.”
Donations to the Plymouth Police Working Dog Foundation may be made in Kaiser’s honor by clicking here.
Susan Chandler
Jun 3, 2013 at 5:58 pm
May K-9 Kaiser run in peace with his other brothers and sisters that went before him. I am sure they will be ready to salute him as they greet him at the bottom of Rainbow Bridge.
Becky Merritt
Jun 9, 2013 at 4:59 am
Mister/Officer LeBretton, my heart pours out to you. What a tragic situation. My sincere sympathy to you, your family and your department.
Jill
Jun 3, 2013 at 1:00 pm
Thank you for your service K-9 Kaiser! May you RIP!!!! Sympathies to Officer LeBretton!!