After eight years of dedicated service, Pako, a 9-1/2 year old Belgian Malinois from Holland, has retired from the Upper Macungie Township Police Department.

Officer Ryan Rhoads, Pako's handler, said the K-9, who was due to retire in the spring, suffered a stroke the second week of January.

"On one of his bites during patrol training, Pako suffered an injury to a vertebra in his neck, which compressed on his spine causing him to suffer a stroke," Rhoads said. "His mind and heart are good and he is to the point he can jump again, but he can't stand on his two hind legs only.

"Pako is taking anti-inflammatory medication, but over all he is good and taking retirement well. He spends most of his time lying on the couch."

Rhoads said when Pako was working he never was fed hamburgers, cheese curls or chips but the first week he retired the canine gained 4 pounds.

Pako was 10 months old when he started his training in narcotics, patrol, tracking, building and area searches, criminal apprehension and obedience.

Over the years, he has received six decorations, one K-9 citation, two exceptional duty awards, one lifesaving award for locating a dementia patient in the freezing cold in 2008.

He also had more than 60 to 70 felony surrenders, Rhoads stated.

Rhoads said he loves being a K-9 handler and misses his partner and best friend being with him at work.

"Funds from Bridgestone purchased Pako," Rhoads said. "My thanks go to Bridgestone/Firestone for Pako and the community in general for their support and monetary donations."

"We are working with Samuel Adams, they are donating the funds to cover my next dog," Rhoads said.

"I am hoping by the middle of next month I will have a new dog here in the states. My brokers in Holland know what I am looking for in a dog and I will not accept anything but the best."