A touching farewell to a loyal K-9 partner was clearly in order for this dedicated officer. Hunter and his partner, Michael D’Aresta were a well-respected team within the Middletown Police Department. They protected the community every day by putting their lives on the line to protect them.
Although diagnosed with terminal cancer, Hunter continued to serve his community faithfully. But, when his poor health took a significant nosedive, he simply could not continue to work any longer. His long term of service came to an abrupt and heartbreaking close.
Sgt. Doug Clark, Middletown K-9 Boss commented online: “K-9 Hunter has been sick for a few days, and tests found that he has a very aggressive type of liver cancer…..Unfortunately, they recommended that he be euthanized.”
Hunter’s diagnosis of cancer broke the heart of their many co-workers. It was no surprise that on his final day on this earth they would want to honor Hunter in some way.
The Time Had Come To Say Farewell To A Loyal K-9 Partner
Saying Goodbye to Hunter
D’Aresta had to make a very difficult decision when it was time to put his partner and long-time friend to sleep,. However, he was not alone in his grief. On the day that Hunter crossed the Rainbow Bridge, D’Aresta sat outside the veterinary clinic with Hunter lying in his arms.
All around them were their fellow officers as they gave a touching farewell to a loyal K-9 officer. Hunter received a very emotional, final salute from the officers by whom he had served for the past 10 years.
Sgt. Clark wrote, “Officer D’Aresta and Hunter have been an outstanding team serving the City of Middletown in a high caliber since 2007……As you can imagine, Mike and his family are going through a lot right now.” I would say that was putting it mildly, would’t you?
Middletown isn’t a large community. It only has a population of approximately 50,000 residents. However, the online response to such a touching farewell to a loyal K-9 partner quickly spread far and wide.
This farewell was a beautiful legacy of what Hunter meant to Middletown. If you would like to read several examples of Hunter’s amazing service to his community, check out this article.
Story and Photo Source: https://policetribune.com/hero-down-middletown-police-k9-hunter-dies/
