Massachusetts authorities learn trauma care for K9s, FRPD K9 retires

On Thursday, July 18, the Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations (STOP) Team K9 handlers, STOP Team medics, and medics from UMass Medical Center (who accompany the STOP Team on its high-risk entry and arrest missions) participated in a K9 Emergency Medical Class at VCA Boston Road Animal Hospital in Springfield.

The class, taught by Dr. Alberto Fernandez, the hospital’s medical director, and veterinary technician Shannon Byrnes, specialized in management and treatment of severe trauma injuries to dogs in the field. Troopers and medics learned proper wound management, medication administration, and shock management, and even had the opportunity to practice by inserting an actual IV line into one of our dogs.

The training will allow MSP’s STOP operators and medics to provide a higher level of care to their loyal canine partners in case of a severe injury.

Also, according to Fall River police, K9 Oro worked his last shift before officially retiring. He is a 9 year old German Shepherd Dog who has served the City of Fall River and surrounding communities for almost 8 years. During his career he located firearms and ammunition, assisted in locating missing persons and apprehended several violent criminals.

Oro will retire to the home of his partner Sergeant Jeff Richard. Sergeant Richard will be obtaining a new partner in the next few weeks.