K9 Bodo – Dennis, Massachusetts

Bodo, Dennis Police Department’s Beloved Retiree, Passes Away

The Dennis Police Department recently announced the sad passing of K9 Bodo, a distinguished and cherished member of their team who served the town of Dennis with unwavering dedication for nearly a decade before retiring in 2020. Bodo, known for his ferocious bark and quirky personality, passed away just shy of his 14th birthday, leaving a legacy of loyalty and service.Bodo’s career was marked by a blend of formidable skill and a unique, goofy personality that endeared him to both his colleagues and the community. His ability to shake his K9 vehicle and his never-fading bark, a testament to his vigilance, made him a notable figure. Despite his retirement, Bodo maintained his protective instincts, alerting his family to any unfamiliar sounds or strangers with his signature bark. His dedication to duty was profound, with the Dennis Police Department noting, “Bodo loved his job, was fiercely loyal, and never asked for anything in return.”The loss of K9 Bodo is not just a blow to the Dennis Police Department but to the community he served. Bodo was more than a police dog; he was a beloved figure whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around him. The department’s heartfelt tribute underscores the deep bond between K9 units and their handlers, as well as the community at large. “He will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Thank you for your service K9 Bodo,” the department shared, reflecting the sentiments of all who knew him.The passing of K9 Bodo marks the end of an era for the Dennis Police Department and serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of police dogs to public safety and law enforcement. Bodo’s story is a testament to the courage, loyalty, and unique personalities that K9s bring to their roles. As the community remembers Bodo, his legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the special bond between humans and their four-legged partners in law enforcement.As we reflect on Bodo’s life and service, it’s clear that his impact went beyond his duties. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he served and protected, a lasting tribute to a true hero. Bodo’s story is not just about the loss of a beloved K9 but about celebrating the extraordinary life of a dog who gave his all to his community. The Dennis Police Department and the town of Dennis will forever cherish the memories of K9 Bodo, a loyal friend and protector to the end.

Submitted By Jim Cortina

James A. Cortina has been involved with police dogs since 1972 and currently on the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Jim has been appointed as Treasurer since its inception in 1991. Jim is one of the charter members of the C.P.W.D.A. organization. Since 1975 he has been a certified professional dog trainer and received his Master Trainer Certification in 1985. During his career he has provided armed K-9 strike crowd control for security agencies in Connecticut and out of state security companies. In conjunction with other members of the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. Board of Directors, he helped to draft Connecticut Statute 53-247(e) "Intentional Injury or Killing of Police K-9" which was passed by the Senate in 1993 and also assisted in implementing the prestigious Daniel Wasson Memorial K-9 Award in 1992. In 1993 he helped coordinate the North American Police Work Dog Association Nationals in New London, Connecticut. He was appointed Training Director for the New London County Work Dog Association from 1985-1987. He performed decoy work for Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc. in police K-9 demonstrations, trained several local police department canines, and coordinated training workshops for out-of-state police departments. He participated in the United States Police K-9 Association Trials in Croton on Hudson, New York in 1985 as a decoy. He is an avid photographer and received photography awards in 1989, 1990, and 1991 and currently takes photographs for the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association Inc.