Dax, an award-winning Illinois police dog, has retired from active duty. The retirement comes after sustaining severe injuries while apprehending a felony suspect. The now 9-year-old German Shepherd K9 has turned in his badge after nine years of service with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Dax joined the department in 2015 and worked alongside his handler, Deputy John Forlenza.
Police dog retires from active duty, will continue staying with handler
According to the Daily Herald, Dax suffered spine and neck injuries on March 3. The injuries occurred while taking down a suspect fleeing in the woods. As per the news outlet, Dax developed temporary paralysis in his hind legs. Eventually, veterinarians diagnosed him with Lumbosacral Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Cervical and Thoracolumbar IVDD.
CBS News reports that although Dax has gotten hurt multiple times while on duty — including a suspect punching him in one instance — he’s never been injured to this extent.
Thankfully, after intensive physical therapy sessions, Dax regained mobility in his hindquarters. However, his veterinarian team advised that he retire from active service for the sake of his overall health and well-being. Dax will now spend his retirement years living with his handler.
Commenting on his K9’s impressive contributions to the sheriff’s office, Deputy Forlenza stated: “There is no way to quantify or properly express what Dax’s service has meant to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Lake County community, his supporters across the nation, and especially me.”
Continuing, Forlenza added: “His service has been exemplary, and most importantly, he’s saved countless lives, including my own. I am proud to have been his handler and best friend for the last nine years.”
Throughout his career, Dax has made numerous appearances on various national TV programs. Moreover, he’s bagged multiple awards over the years. These include the German Shepherd Dog Club of America Hero Dog Award and the Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor in 2023.
The sheriff’s office will hold Dax’s retirement ceremony at a later date.
