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June 01, 2008
Passing of Retired Sheriff’s Canine Kuma (K92)
Is with great sadness that I inform you of Kuma’s passing. Kuma retired in December of 2005 and has led a very happy and healthy life with our family since his retirement. Kuma was in excellent health when he retired and never missed a day of work. Kuma began his career with the Sheriff’s Department in 1999 and had hundreds of apprehensions to his credit as well as countless public appearances. Four weeks ago I took Kuma to Sunset Animal Medical Center for a routine check of his hips. As he aged Kuma developed some minor hip issues relating to his work for the Sheriff’s Department such as scaling fences and climbing in and out of attics. As it was a routine check I was shocked when my vet called to report that Kuma was bleeding internally from his spleen area. Apparently it had just started the day I took him in for the hip exam. The doctor explained that spleen issues are common to German Sheppard’s and she indicated that the bleeding may or may not be related to cancer. Emergency surgery was needed to stop the bleeding and save his life that day. Kuma came through the surgery with flying colors and was soon home with our family spending time in his favorite spot by the pool. The next week I received the news that the spleen was cancerous. The doctor told us that we had somewhere between 4 weeks and 6 months left with Kuma but stated that he would be pain free and happy during this time and this was later found to be true.
Doctor Arbios and all the staff were outstanding. They treated Kuma, Heidi and myself like members of their own families. Kuma received much love and attention and was happy and content all morning. He passed into the great police dog heaven at noon. All the outstanding medical care provided for Kuma was funded by the Sacramento Sheriff’s Canine Association (SSDK9.com). We formed the association to help pay for the medical and burial costs of our retired dogs that the county would not cover. Kumas’s medical issues were a prime example of what this money is intended for. Without the initial surgery we would never had know if the illness was cancer related and we would have lost Kuma that day. We would like to thank all the generous individuals and businesses that have donated to the canine association over the years.
If you worked with Kuma over the years or would like to show support for the canine detail you are welcome to attend the service. This is not an official Sheriff’s Department function.
Visitor comments
"Kuma was a goooood boyyyyy! We will miss ya buddy but always smile and remember the good times we shared. Sacramento is a safer place today becasue K92 was here! Take a break boy, you earned it."
->By Dave Becwar on June 25, 2008 - 06:06
"One hard part of being a K9 officer is knowing that you will have to watch the passing of your faithful partner some day. The pictures at the memorial told a story of a handler who not only had a K9 partner but an addition to his family. In response to Gordon’s memory of the double apprehension that one night I remember it well as Todd (K95) and I had front row seats on both apprehensions. Todd and I had organized a controlled buy of narcotics from two 2nd striker parolees that any officer would get nervous to arrest. After a short pursuit both 6 foot tattooed from head to toe parolees took off on foot with both dogs apprehending the first guy right in front of our car. Neither one of us wanted to get out of the car because Kuma and Hunter were taking care of business on their own. The second guy didn’t stand a chance either running away from hunter in cowboy boots either. I almost wish I did not see that happen as Kuma made it look so easy and natural. I now know the complex dynamics of that deployment that night. Rest in peace Kuma. Kyle and Rocky SSD K96" ->By SSDK96 on June 06, 2008 - 09:06
""Joel,So sorry to hear the news….as hard as I have tried, I haven’t found any fancy or eloquent words that can adequately describe the bond between a handler and his dog….and I’m sure I wouldn’t do any justice trying to describe the feeling of losing your dog… it is definitely a sadness from deep within tho… fortunately, a place we don’t have to go too often…. It was an honor & a pleasure to have known, trained and worked alongside Kuma. I still have very fond and vivid memories of our double send / double apprehension following that one pursuit and footbail in the north area. With air support above and Kuma and Hunter in hot pursuit, these bad guys were not getting away. During the fairly lengthy foot pursuit, Kuma and Hunter maintained a level of focus and discipline that made all of the hours and the days of training worth it. The two bad guys were apprehended by the K9's and I don't think there were any two prouder handlers anywhere in the country right then. That was just awesome to watch and be a part of. My thoughts are with you my friend…."" ->By gb on June 03, 2008 - 10:06
"Joel and Family,When Joel called to let me know Kuma passed, my heart sunk. Kuma was my favorite K9 and I will never forget him. I have pictures of Kuma hanging on a back board in my office. I was clearing a stack of files off my desk and Kuma's picture shifted up towards me. It was like he was saying hello, or was it good bye. I will miss him, but he will always be in my heart and the hearts of many. My deepest sympathy goes out to you. Thank you for sharing Kuma with us." ->By Diana Shijo on June 03, 2008 - 07:06
"I am very sorry to hear about your loved partner Kuma. I guess for me, Police dogs are just as much a Hero as the officer who handles them. We take our pets to be our friends, but in this case Kuma was more then just a friend ...he was a partner who gave all his heart for the lives of his team and those of the people, who needed his help.He was a beautiful and wonderful animal. My condolences and may you be with peace, that Kuma will always be remembered as one of our Hero protectors."
->By Diane on June 02, 2008 - 09:06
"Joel,Again, my condolences. I know how tight you were with Kuma and how good a team you two made. Kuma did an exceptional job as a service dog and was an outstanding partner and friend for you. Not only that, he was a great ambassador of working dogs with his easy temperment and attitude. Kuma gets to keep my boy Stazzo company now and trade war stories about the old days - I'm sure it's a great place where they are - green grass, shade trees, plenty of Kongs to chew on and rabbits to chase. As they say, "Gone, but never forgotten". Best regards, Ian and K9 Ike (K9-4)" ->By Ian Carver on June 02, 2008 - 07:06
"I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that we all appreciate what you and Kuma did for us. And a special "thank you" to you and your family for giving him a home life as well. As someone else said.....take comfort in knowing that they are waiting for us at the "Rainbow Bridge". Sincerely, another bereaving dog owner." ->By Kathy Turner on June 02, 2008 - 04:06
"I have always loved animals and especially those who work with our policemen. My thoughts and prayers are with our police dogs and our policemen. Kuma was so beautiful and each police dog have their own special beauty. God-Bless our police dogs and their handlers."
->By Pamela Whitehouse on June 02, 2008 - 03:06
"Thank you for giving Kuma a long , dedicated, useful life .I'm positive your love was reciprocated . Sincerely , another breaved dog owner" ->By Amy on June 02, 2008 - 02:06
"We lost our male German Shephard in November exactly the same way -- he was just short of 8 years and it broke out hearts ... we can take solace in the fact that our dogs had great lives with lots of love and the best of care.Connie Henderson" ->By Connie Henderson on June 02, 2008 - 01:06
"Joel & Heidi, I'm so sorry for your loss. You gave Kuma a good life and a wonderful home. You are in my thoughts."
->By Diane James on June 02, 2008 - 09:06
"Joel, I was once told that a great cop is only an adequate one if he is paired up with a so so K9 partner. However, if the K9 is great the two are unstoppable. K9-2 was an unstoppable team! It was an honor to have worked with the two of you. Take solis in knowing that there are some great dogs waiting for us at the "Rainbow Bridge."Rest in peace my furry friend." ->By Det. Chris Rogers & "Maya" on June 02, 2008 - 08:06
"Kuma's life is celebrated as one of courage. We mourn your loss with you."
->By Jan Fehlhaber on June 02, 2008 - 08:06
"I am sorry to hear about the death of such a wonderful dog who was an asset to this city. I am glad that he received such loving care by your family and I wish you well and comfort at this time."
->By Caroline Clay on June 02, 2008 - 08:06
"Our condolesences!! It is tough to lose a partner, we have been through it as well. Kuma, I am sure, was a wonderful partner and I am sure the memories will continue to provide smiles and happiness.Sincerely, Kansas Police Dog Association membership" ->By Kansas Police Dog Association on June 01, 2008 - 07:06
"I'm sorry to hear of Kuma's passing and my prayers are with you and your family. Kuma, obviously, was much-loved by you and your family. My utmost appreciation and respect for all law enforcement dogs and their handlers. Rest in peace, Kuma."
->By Peggy Buckner - Sacramento, CA on June 01, 2008 - 03:06
"Joel, we are thinking of you today, as we keep your family and friends in our thoughts. Kuma's dedication and service to your state of California will be missed. Even though these are sad times for your friends and family, they are truly thankful for every day, hour, minute that you were in Kuma's life. Know that they will continue to think of Kuma, whether it brings to them a smile of happiness from a fond memory, or a sorrowful tear. The legacy Kuma left behind will live forever.James A. Cortina Director / Connecticut Police Work Dog Association ( C.P.W.D.A. )" ->By James A. Cortina on June 01, 2008 - 02:06
"I am so sorry to hear about Kuma's passing. I never knew this dog but it sounds like Kuma was a very brave Sheriff dog. I moved from Sacramento in 1988 and left as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff. I'm sure he was a fantasic dog. Again I am so sorry.... Kathy Aquila-Willett-North Bend, Oregon" ->By Kathy Willett on June 01, 2008 - 01:06
"Kuma was obviously loved dearly and he was provided the best care possible. He deserved it.You both have given Sacramento a great service . Thank you." ->By Kathy and Ron Inzerillo on June 01, 2008 - 12:06
"I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Kuma. Without theses brave dogs, society would be a much worse place. Rest in peace Kuma."
->By Gary Want - England on June 01, 2008 - 11:06
"I'm so sorry for the loss of your beloved Kuma. Police dogs are just amazing and I'm so glad he was able to enjoy his retirement as long as he did with you and your family.God bless and my Kuma rest in peace." ->By Sue Treadwell on June 01, 2008 - 11:06
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On Saturday morning the 24th of May Kuma was not able to get off his dog bed. I immediately took him back to Sunset Animal Medical Center and my worst fears were realized. The cancer had migrated to his liver and he was again bleeding internally. Kuma was given pain medication and was made at home on a large dog bed in the surgery center.
There will be a short memorial service for Kuma on Tuesday June 3rd at East Lawn Cemetery on Greenback Lane. The service will be at the Garden of Valor at 1:00 pm. Many of our local police service dogs are interred there.
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