After seven years of faithful service to Milton, a German Shepherd named Kyro has been retired as a police K9 officer and sold to his handler.

“It’s been recommended by a veterinarian that he be retired due to some health issues,” Milton police Capt. Shawn McCarty told the Milton City Council. “He’s still fine as a dog, but not as a police dog. His K9 handler has agreed to take care of him for the remainder of his life.”

The council approved a resolution retiring Kyro and directing that he live with former Milton police Officer Joshua Reece, who agreed to keep the dog as a personal pet. Because it was determined Kyro is personal property valued at $500 or less, no advertisements or bids were necessary.

Kyro was born and raised in the Netherlands and was trained as a dual-purpose K9, skilled in searches and apprehensions. “We want to thank Kyro for his service and we’re glad he’s staying in the family,” Mayor Joe Lockwood said.