WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – Woodbury Police shared news that K9 Cirrus passed away after a long illness. The Belgian Malinois partnered with handler Sgt. Natalie Bauer on patrol with specialties in apprehension and narcotics.

K9 Cirrus came to the Woodbury Police Department as an eight-week-old puppy and did his “cadet” training with members of the force until he was old enough to begin formal canine schooling with Bauer. His path was atypical in that most patrol dogs are born in Europe and receive their early socialization and training before immigrating to the U.S. Allowing Cirrus to grow up in Woodbury was not only more economical but also allowed him to become familiar with Minnesota customs and scents.

The Public Safety staff offered this tribute: “K9 Cirrus helped ensure his handlers and all his partners went home safely after each shift. His nose, which he loved to use, allowed him the ability to serve our community in ways human officers can’t. His hunger for training and drive for adventure was just as deep his last week as it was his first week. His favorite toy was his tug and he loved runs and hikes with Sergeant Bauer, K9 brother Bosco (retired from the police department) and his family.”

The Woodbury Police K9 Fund is a non-profit that provides support and funding for the training of the dogs and their handlers as well as the purchase of special equipment. The fund was started by Woodbury City Council Member Donna Stafford in memory of her husband Bruce, who served the city as a firefighter and paramedic for 35 years. Contributions in K9 Cirrus’ honor can be made here.