The first time I’ve saluted a dog.
I love dogs. Sweet dogs, cuddly dogs, happy dogs, drooly dogs, you name it. So when I got the call to shoot a police dog that was retiring I jumped at the chance.
Blitz is this dogs name and he and Officer Young have shared a squad car for 9 years. Together they’ve patrolled abandoned buildings, chased down evil-doers and sniffed out narcotics. They have trained and cared for one another since Blitz first donned a bullet proof vest and badge. The entire time I shot photos of Blitz, he barely acknowledged me. Apparently I wasn’t much of a threat. Instead he locked eyes on Officer Young awaiting his command. Blitz was always ready to spring into action like he’s always done. This, according to Officer Young will be the hardest part for a service dog as he transitions into retirement. No longer jumping in the back of the squad car, sirens shrieking, off to a new adventure. Nope, it’s time to taper off before age leads to injury.
It won’t be all bad. After all, he’s going to live out his retirement in the comfort of Officer Young’s home. I can only imagine that all squirrels within a 10 block radius have moved away in preparation and that Turner & Hooch will be on repeat as he waits for Officer Young to return from work to tell him about his day. Best of luck Blitz. Thank you for your service.
