Scott Williams, swilliams@wolfrivermedia.com
Leader Photo by Greg Mellis Officer Nate Thornborrow and Cody pose for a photo during Cody’s retirement party April 14 at the Shawano County Lake Park Pavilion.
Leader Photo by Greg Mellis Stuffed canines selling for $15 are available at the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department and several outlets throughout the area. Proceeds will go to the K-9 program.
Shawano County law enforcement members are paying tribute to a four-legged colleague stricken with health problems.
Cody, a canine member of the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department, is going into early retirement after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.
The 6-year-old German shepherd is not expected to survive more than another year or two.
Sheriff’s Deputy Nate Thornborrow, the dog’s handler and keeper, said that he and his family will focus on trying to help Cody enjoy life for as long as they can.
A retirement party that attracted about 100 people April 14 allowed the dog to feel the community’s affection and appreciation.
“He was living it up,” Thornborrow said. “He was loving the attention.”
The party, held at the Shawano Lake County Park Pavilion, drew police officers, school kids and many others anxious to give Cody a fitting sendoff. Children delivered get-well cards addressed to the ailing dog, and Cody devoured a special cake made just for him — with bacon and peanut butter.
The event was sponsored by S.O.S. K-9 Inc., a group that provides financial support to the sheriff’s department’s canine units.
John LaShua, president of the group, said police dogs and their handlers make many public appearances, so they become well-known and liked in the community.
LaShua said members of his group also have grown fond of Cody and were happy to throw him the retirement party.
“It was very special for all of us,” he said.
Cody, one of two police dogs doing duty with the sheriff’s department, was forced to retire early after veterinarians discovered that breathing difficulties were caused by an aggressive and terminal form of cancer. The dog is undergoing chemotherapy treatment, with financial support from S.O.S. K-9.
The private group is selling stuffed dogs for $15 each, available at the sheriff’s department and soon at area retail outlets. The group also hopes to raise enough money to purchase a replacement canine unit for the sheriff’s department.
For information about making a donation, go to www.sosk9.com.