Ace returned to the police station walking on three legs. The seven-year-old German shepherd was shot during an operation in Florida while accompanying three officers who were trying to arrest an armed man.
His handler, Officer Natalie Oestreich, carried him away from the scene. After stabilizing him and taking him in for surgery, veterinarians had to amputate his left front leg to save his life. When he was discharged, Ace walked under his own power, and those waiting for him welcomed him with applause.
Sheriff Grady Judd said Ace helped protect the three officers and declared: “Ace is a hero, without a doubt”. The K-9 will retire from service and live with Oestreich and her family, where he will continue to recover.
