Smith County, Texas (East Texas News) — A sheriff’s office police dog in Smith County has retired on Tuesday, following in the footsteps of his handler.
Deputy José Terrazas retired earlier this month and requested that his lifelong partner, the police dog Lobo, be allowed to accompany him, according to a county statement.
The Smith County Commissioners Court approved the request on Tuesday.
Police K-9 Lobo, who served the county for almost eight years, can now “go home and rest easy beside his partner,” the statement says. Terrazas served with the Sheriff’s Office for 16 years.
“Lobo is a special animal who has dedicated his life to serving and protecting his community alongside Deputy Terrazas and his family,” Lt. Jeffery Hobson said in the statement. “The deputy has requested that Lobo transition to civilian life and be provided with the care, the support, and the love he deserves.”
“His service is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and animals, and his retirement reminds us of our responsibility to care for those who have given so much.”
The statement notes that police dogs typically work six to eight years.
