A career in the police force can be taxing on a person, but the same can also be said for their four-legged co-workers.

That鈥檚 why Ned鈥檚 Wish, a society aimed at enhancing the quality of life for K-9 retirees in Canada, is teaming up with Canine Heroes Kennel in 琉璃神社 to host the second annual Heroes Run on Sept. 25.

鈥淒ue to the cost of health care for retired police or military dogs, the potential to enjoy retirement can quite literally rest on a dime,鈥� reads a press release. 鈥淚f health care costs become too high, a dog鈥檚 quality of life can be significantly reduced, or even cut short.鈥�

This year鈥檚 run will honour the memory of Police Service Dog, Gator, who gave his life to protect his handler and best friend during a call in Campbell River in July 2021.

鈥淕ator not only kept his community and other police officers safe that day, he also ensured his handler was able to go home to his family.鈥�

In honour of his five years of service on the force, this year鈥檚 Heroes Run will feature a five-kilometre family-friendly road race, beginning at Canine Heroes Kennel at 4395 Goodison Road.

Leashed dogs are encouraged to come along for the run.

Registration for the run can be found for $75 and comes with a gift bag.

鈥淏ecause the work police and military dogs do is so physically demanding, families who adopt retired police or military dogs can be left with substantial and costly health issues. It鈥檚 an unfortunate reality: Medical issues and associated costs can dictate how well, how long or even if police dogs can enjoy retirement.鈥�

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Jake.courtepatte@kelownacapnews.com
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