ARLINGTON, Texas — The Arlington Fire Department announced the unfortunate passing of a third explosion detection canine in just over a month.
Since the beginning of May, EOD canine Ben, EOD canine Shiner (retired) and EOD canine George (retired) have all passed away from cancer, according to the department. Arlington fire posted about Ben's death on May 2, Shiner's on June 10 and George's on June 14.
K-9 George
George passed away on June 13, according to the post, with his handler by his side. George served the Arlington Fire Department from January 2015 to October 2021.
He retired and enjoyed sleeping in a recliner, playing fetch, stealing socks, and hiding toys and bones from his sister, Molly.
K-9 Shiner
Shiner passed away on June 9 surrounded by his family.
He served with the Arlington Fire Department from June 2019 to April 2024. In retirement, he enjoyed swimming, runs/walks, playing catch with his favorite rope toy, and snuggles with his family.
K-9 Ben
Ben passed away in early May at 8 years old.
He completed over 240 deployments and worked over 1,885 hours for the Arlington Fire Department.
George, Shiner and Ben all worked with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, which currently includes fifteen explosive detection K9s and their handlers and eight certified bomb technicians. The team provides pre-event “sweeps” of major venues in Arlington and surrounding areas as requested, investigates suspicious packages, and disposes of explosives.
Rest in Peace, fellas. You were all very good boys.
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