K-9 Kilo returned to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday after suffering severe injuries from being shot three weeks ago. Last week, the K-9 had his stitches removed and was taken off pain medications.
“His recovery has been remarkable, so we’re hoping if nothing changes, he’ll return to full duty by the end of the year,” said Tammy Ervin, Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
The K-9 had surgery at a hospital in North Carolina and has been recovering ever since. Ervin said he’s limited on the amount of weight he can take on his femur. As a result, he spends his time resting in his kennel, but officials wanted him to get a change of scenery.
“We put his kennel in the hallway, so he can see everyone coming and going. It’s really lifted everyone’s spirits around here to be able to see him and stop by and pet him,” she said.
K-9 Kilo has received love from all across the globe. Ervin showed News13 support letters he’s gotten from California, Ohio, Minnesota and even the United Kingdom.
“We haven’t had a lot of negativity around it, and that’s what we needed as the humans that love Kilo. We needed that support to get through this too because he’s just like a child to us, and so when he hurts, we all hurt.”
Officials are still investigating who shot the K-9 and are offering a $2,000 reward for anyone with information that could lead to an arrest. According to Ervin, evidence is currently being tested with SLED that could provide them with answers.
Next month, Kilo will return to North Carolina for a follow-up after having surgery. News13 will have those updates.
