Holly MatkinMuscatine, IA – Muscatine Police Department (MPD) K9 Nero died on Nov. 15, 2021, following a brief illness, according to his department.
The Muscatine Veterinary Hospital confirmed the nine-year-old German shepherd’s death in a Facebook post the following day.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Nero, the Muscatine Police Department K9 officer,” the veterinary hospital said. “Nero passed away on Monday November 15th after a short illness.”
The Slovakian-born K9 completed “rigorous training” prior to joining the MPD on Oct. 15, 2014.
His addition to the department was made possible by a $15,000 grant from the Troy J. Carter Trust, KLJB reported.
He served alongside his human partner, MPD Officer Minnat Patel, for his entire career.
“Nero was one of a kind,” the Muscatine Veterinary Hospital said. “He was fierce but gentle, serious yet silly. His love for his job was intense. The only things he loved more than his work was his handler, Minnat and family, and of course his tennis ball.”
K9 Nero was always happy to visit the clinic and was a joy to care for.
“He always made quite the impression! He looked tough (and was!) but was really a big teddy bear,” the veterinary hospital said. “Thank you for your service Nero. You will be deeply missed.”
K9 Nero and Sgt. Patel both received their certifications through the nationally-recognized American Working Dog training curriculum, KLJB reported.
The duo was a main attraction at many public events, according to the MPD.
K9 Nero was also instrumental in tracking down illegal drugs and various suspects, KLJB reported.
“Nero was a great dog and did some amazing things for the citizens of Muscatine and the Police Department,” MPD Chief Brett Talkington said. “He will be deeply missed by all.”
The Muscatine Police Department and the City of Muscatine Public regret to announce that MPD K-9 Officer Nero passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on Monday (Nov. 15). For more information 👉 https://t.co/cXLXjwObmX pic.twitter.com/Bx5aV1hRhc
— City of Muscatine (@CityofMuscatine) November 16, 2021
The @CityofMuscatine announced that MPD's Police K9 has passed away peacefully. #RestinPeace Nero, you served Muscatine well. #K9 pic.twitter.com/5qaHXmKikF
— Muscatine Profile (@MuscatineIA) November 16, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Muscatine Police Department and Officer Patel in the loss of K9 Nero.
