Candy, an 11-year-old police dog who devoted nearly a decade of service to the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office, received accolades for her unwavering dedication even as she battled terminal cancer.
The seasoned German shepherd, a specialist in narcotics detection, carved her legacy in the force, leaving behind an irreplaceable void.
Candy’s Illustrious Career and Battle with Cancer
Joining the ranks in 2014, Candy was the first narcotics-detection canine in the sheriff’s office. Her career was marked by her unrelenting passion for her duty and an equally enthusiastic spirit for recreation, which endeared her to colleagues. However, the tide turned when Candy’s declining health—initially dismissed as signs of ageing—unveiled a more heart-wrenching reality: terminal cancer.
In recognition of her courage and contribution, a touching tribute was organized. The solemn hallway, flanked by deputies standing in respect, witnessed Candy’s final, poignant walk as salutes accompanied her journey. Her bravery, encapsulated in impressive figures, spoke volumes. With over 2,900 operational searches, Candy was instrumental in seizing 278 pounds of narcotics, disrupting an illegal trade worth approximately $937,895. As stated by the department, her departure leaves a profound impact, marking the end of an era of loyalty, service, and companionship.
