SANTA BARBARA The Santa Barbara Police Department on Saturday announced the sudden death of police K9 Klaus.
The German Shepherd was partnered with Santa Barbara Police Officer J. Lombardo. The dog experienced a medical emergency Feb. 7 and was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital for treatment, Anthony Wagner, police spokesman, said in a news release.
“Tragically, Klaus did not survive the medical condition and passed away,” Mr. Wagner said.
Police did not disclose the age of the dog.
“Officer Lombardo and K-9 Klaus were partnered together and had begun to develop a very promising career as a K-9 team,” Mr. Wagner said in a statement. “The two had spent many hundreds-of-hours training and many shifts working together to make the Santa Barbara community a safer place. Santa Barbara Police K-9’s live with their handlers and become part of the family. The bond between handler and K-9 is an essential element for an effective partnership.
“Please join us in extending heartfelt sorrow to Officer Lombardo. Klaus was a champion, we honor his memory.”
In April 2019, police K9 Jake retired after nearly six years of service. In December, police K9 Loki also retired.
Last month, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department announced the sudden passing of sheriff’s K9 Chop, who died after just 11 months on the job.
