Six days after going home, a California police dog that was shot on duty experienced complications and returned to an animal hospital for another minor surgery, police said.
Doctors drained and re-sutured the injured area, said Cpt. Rudy Lopez of the West Covina Police Department.
Reiko, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois and member of the West Covina Police Department, walked out of the Animal Specialty Group Hospital just a few hours after Sunday morning’s surgery.
"He’s doing much better, and the doctors expect him to make a full recovery." Lopez said. "I am amazed by this beautiful animal’s strength and stamina."
Reiko is set to continue healing at home, pending no further complications. Reiko will remain on full bed rest for a minimum of two weeks, Lopez said.
"We are not in a hurry to put him back in service," Lopez said.
The police dog was shot as he protected his handler during the search for a gunman wanted in connection with a homicide on Sunday No. 3, 2014. Reiko’s handler, who credits his K9 with saving his life, has been allowed to stay with Reiko as he recovers, Lopez said.
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Reiko’s story has touched the hearts of people across the country, who have donated to help the department acquire protective body armor for the K-9 unit, Lopez said.
