HOUSTON - Canton Police Officer Ryan Davis recently lost his K-9 partner Jethro in a tragic shooting. He's made the journey to Texas to find a new crime fighting partner.
"He was a family member, can't begin to describe the bond," said Davis. "I miss him. It's been difficult."
Davis is still grieving and still remembers the burglary call two weeks ago. He and his K-9 partner Jethro responded to a burglary call at an Ohio grocery store where a thief shot Jethro three times. He killed the beloved K-9.
"There's always going to be a hole with Jethro," said Davis. "It'll never be filled."
Jethro was honored with a full police funeral. Hundreds were moved to tears at the sacrifice of a brave officer on four legs. Jethro's story touched the hearts of people at K9s4COPS.org right here in Houston. They're donating a new K-9 partner for Davis.
Davis spent the last few days at the Houston K9 Academy getting to know three new dogs trying to choose and find a new partner.
"So many factors in looking for the right canine," said Davis. "Mine is probably emotionally based right now."
It's not easy. Jethro was more than a partner. He was a part of Davis' family since he was an 8-week-old puppy. Davis trained him himself to be a loyal crime fighter on the streets of Canton and a lovable dog back home.
"I think it's been therapeutic, the whole time helping in the healing process," said Davis.
The healing will continue now with a new partner by his side. Davis picked Tuko, a German Shepherd - just like Jethro. On Tuesday morning, they head back to Canton together, but Davis says he'll carry Jethro in his heart forever.
Tuko is a temporary name. Davis will rename the K-9 with the help of his family when he gets back to Ohio.
