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Died – 10/25/17
Handler – Officer Paul Italiano
BREWSTER POLICE DEPARTMENT’S CANINE “FALCO” PASSES
For those who have been following the status of K-9 Falco, In October of 2016 Falco was diagnosed with Lymphoma (Cancer of his Lymph nodes). In May of 2017 afte…r eight months of chemo treatments, his tumors were non detectable and he was in full remission. Sadly that remission only lasted 6 weeks. In June the Cancer was back. Falco was placed on a Rescue Protocol of chemo treatments once again. This time the treatments had no effect and the cancer continued to grow. It had leveled off and Falco continued to work and play as if nothing were wrong with him. Last week Falco lost his appetite and was not eating well. In the last twenty four hours Falco’s Lymph nodes in his neck enlarged severely. He had a difficult time swallowing and was having extreme difficulty breathing. After a consultation with his Veterinarian, it was decided that nothing further could be done to help Falco’s situation. Today at 5:37 Falco was peacefully euthanized. He was in a familiar and fun place to him. He was surrounded by the entire veterinary staff who he loved and who loved him. He had many treats and even a piece of cake before he passed. I was with him until his last breath and beyond. He could not have gone in a more peaceful way. Falco was 4 years old. As I drove back from the Vet, there was a rainbow over Brewster. I could not believe it, but it’s true. I would like to thank the Mr. and Mrs. Falcone who have been so supportive and allowing me the honor of naming Falco in memory of their son Detective John Falcone who was a friend, brother officer and colleague. John was killed in the line of duty in February 2011. I would like to thank Sgt. Bill Finucane, John Brazil, Nelson Hernandez and Al Kirsh of the MTAPD K-9 Training Unit who trained both Falco and I. Chief John Del Gardo, Mayor Jim Schoening the entire Brewster Police Department for their outstanding and continued support throughout this entire ordeal. The members of the Brewster Elks who provided a fund raiser for Falco’s costly treatments. Dr. Steven Immerblum and his entire staff at Golden’s Bridge Veterinary Center who are the most amazing, caring, compassionate and skilled people. I can not say enough good things about them and their support of Falco. All my family and friends who have prayed and shown so much support. I am sure I am missing some but thank you all. Falco was more than just a Police K-9. He was a member of our family. He lived with us, protected our home and my family. He was my partner, Always vigilante and always ready to please. He was excellent at his job as an explosive detection K-9, he was certified by both the ATF and New York State in Explosive Detection and did it well right up until last week. Falco worked throughout his treatments. He continued to train and was happy when doing it. Since detection is a game to the dog It was his play time. Rest in Peace Buddy! work will never be the same without you! I will miss you as you will be missed by many.
