A state police K-9 was accidentally shot and killed in the line of duty in Lewis County last week.

It’s a tragic incident that can hit hard, especially for the dog’s handler because the relationship between officer and dog is more than just professional.

Mike is a K-9 unit with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

His handler is Deputy Shawn Ryan and their partnership began over four years ago.

“K-9 Mike and I have a great relationship,” Ryan said. “We’re very busy. We work a lot of cases together. Our bond grows every single day.”

Ryan says it’s not unusual for dogs and their handlers to have a strong bond..

He says officers and their K-9 partners get to know each other very well, so well they can even understand what the other will do in a situation.

“Day-to-day basis, the handler spends more time with their dog and dedication and just working and learning the dog than probably any other thing they’ll do in their career.”

That’s why losing a partner can hit hard.

On Monday, October 23, a state police dog was accidentally killed in the line of duty in Lewis County.

His handler shot at a pit bull that attacked the K-9. The bullet ricocheted and hit the police dog in the stomach.

“They’re putting their lives on the line every day just like all the other officers that are on the road,” Ryan said. “In an event where a K-9 loses his life in the line of duty, it’s a tragic day, not only for the handler, but for the K-9 community and the community itself.”

Ryan says between training and working with Mike on duty, it isn’t always easy, but”it’s very worth it. It’s a very rewarding position.”

While no dogs with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department have been killed in the line of duty, Ryan says retired dogs who pass away still leave a lasting impact on officers.