The Oviedo Police Department has raised more than $15,000 to buy a new K9 dog after the sudden passing of one of its beloved dogs.
“Nero,” 6, died of cancer in March and was laid to rest in an emotional ceremony.
The dogs fulfill an important role at the Oviedo Police Department. The dogs patrol the streets, help sniff out narcotics, track criminal suspects, lost children and even missing endangered adults.
Nero and his handler from the police department are credited for completing those tasks to help the community.
But when Nero was diagnosed with terminal cancer, the police department decided to put him down.
And the cost of getting a new k9 was $12,000 dollars.
“A local resident who wanted to make a donation for a replacement for our K9 Nero. She was an animal lover and wanted to help out and I’m told she donated $12,000 for the replacement of Nero,” said Lieutenant Mike Beavers of the Oviedo Police Department.
The anonymous donor wasn’t the only one who helped.
Local restaurants and shops came together to raise money with the assistance of the Oviedo Police Foundation.
The non-profit is designed to support the police department and help with unexpected expenses
“There is still going to be long-term cost associated with the dog vet bills, food and so on and so forth,” said Beavers.
The department currently has one k9, but will soon have a new addition.
If you would like to donate to the department, you can visit: http://www.oviedopolicefoundation.org/