YORK COUNTY— K-9 Saber, a member of the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office K-9 program, recently lost his battle to cancer.
While undergoing emergency surgery recently, veterinarians found several tumors in Saber’s lungs and a large tumor around his spleen. Portions of the tumors were sent for testing and revealed that his cancer was terminal.
He spent his final days at home resting with his handler and his family before he passed on Oct. 16.
Saber, a German Shepherd, joined the department in 2018 and was assigned to his handler, Sgt. Brett Schultz. Saber was a dual-purpose canine who was certified through the American Society of Canine Trainers International. Saber was trained in patrol functions, article searches, tracking, and apprehension. He was also trained in narcotics detection.
“Saber is a one-of-a-kind dog that has touched our hearts for the past six years and made this community a safer place to live and work. We thank Deputy Sheriff K9 Saber for his dedicated service to this agency and the York-Poquoson community,” the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post.
During his time with the department, Saber assisted in many criminal apprehensions and narcotics seizures. He worked with both local and federal agencies.
According to the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, a memorial to Saber is set up in the parking lot of the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office.
Many have stopped by with toys, flowers, and cards for Saber.
“As a solemn tribute to our fallen K9 officer Saber, his original K9 Sheriff’s Office vehicle is stationed in front of our building. His bravery, dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to duty will never be forgotten. Let us honor Saber’s memory and essential role in protecting and serving our community,”
The memorial for Saber will be set up until October 30.