We are heartbroken to have to announce the unexpected passing of K9 Saro. Saro was with his handler, Officer Jeremy Schoen since 2014. Over the holiday weekend Officer Schoen noticed Saro became quite ill. After consulting with a local veterinarian Saro was taken to a local animal hospital. Unfortunately, his condition was dire, but he passed surrounded by those who loved him most. Sergeant Joe Slenk, the sergeant over the K9 unit, and the other off-duty K9 handlers, were all able to go to the hospital to be with Saro and Officer Schoen’s family to support them during that time.
Saro had been an incredible police K9, always wanted to work and was a valuable member of the Holland DPS. He was also a K9 who would let kids pull on his ears, hug and pet him during school visits or other events. He will be missed.
A brief ceremony will be held at the HDPS in memory of Saro for HDPS staff later today.