The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) reported the death of canine deputy Drago on Wednesday.
According to a CCSO release, Drago and his handler were on a training exercise on Tuesday when Drago suffered a heat-related injury. Drago was transported to a veterinarian clinic for treatment where he was stabilized, showed signs of recovery and was released to return home with his handler.
On Tuesday night when the handler was checking on Drago, the handler discovered the canine had passed away.
“It really hurts to lose a member of the CCSO family,” said CCSO Sheriff Mark Hunter in the release. “Drago was one of our most senior Canine Deputies and his loss will be felt within our K-9 program and our CCSO family.”
Drago had served with CCSO since November 2017.