Barkley the retired police dog now pain-free

Barkley the retired police dog now pain-free

Tools

Story Published: Aug 25, 2008 at 5:22 PM PDT

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 1:11 AM PDT

By KOMO Staff

Watch the story
KIRKLAND, Wash. -- A retired police dog who faced certain death after helping fight crime for years is now recovering from spinal surgery.

Barkley was recently retired after he became too weak to work. After a lifetime of abuse from criminals who punched, kicked, and choked the Seattle police dog, he developed a herniated disc and needed spinal surgery to stay alive.

"He just gives it 110 percent every single time I ask," said his handler, Eric Dupleich.

On Monday, the 10-year-old German shepherd finally got a reprieve. He underwent surgery for the bulging disks in his neck.

It was a much-needed surgery but not one Dupleich was certain his loyal companion would receive.

"We've had a couple of times where he's saved my lifem and I know he's just a dog but he's done a lot for me," he said.

Dupleich couldn't afford the surgery needed to keep him alive, and the cost wasn't covered by the police department.

The veterinarian, Dr. Sean Sanders, agreed to waive his $3,000 surgery fee. But Dupleich still couldn't afford the operation.

And in the end he didn't have to shoulder the burden alone. Barkley's plight struck a chord with the community. Generous KOMO News viewers who heard about his problem donated enough money to cover the expenses of tests and related costs, which were expected to total $6,500.

Dupleich said he was overwhelmed by the generosity of the people who came forward with their hard-earned money.

"I'm so grateful that Barkley gets to have the surgery and enjoy his retirement," he said.

During his 8-year career, Barkley tracked down nearly 150 suspects and saved his partner's life several times.

"I just hope this improves his quality of life and there's a successful recovery for him," said Dulpeich.

It will take up to eight weeks to know if Barkley will fully recover.

"In Barkley's case this is a surgery of last resort, either live with his condition or be euthanized, and hopefully it's not too late," said neurosurgeon Dr. Sean Sanders.

But the surgeon said one thing is for sure -- the decorated police dog will no longer be in pain.

Weather & Traffic

Icon
Current Temp 64.0 °F
A Few Clouds
More Weather

Weather & Traffic

More Weather

On Demand

Resources and info you need to prepare for the switch to DTV.

Stay Connected

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Marketplace