K9 Kyago – Washoe, Nevada

Handler – Deputy Dunham

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office mourns passing of retired K9 Kyago

It is with heavy hearts, that we share the passing of retired K9 Kyago. Kyago dedicated seven years to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, working tirelessly to keep our community safe. In 2016, K9 Kyago was partnered with Deputy Dunham and completed his training at Vohne Liche Kennels in Indiana before joining the WCSO. Kyago served as a dual-purpose K9, trained in narcotics detection, subject apprehension, and tracking.Kyago had a tremendous career serving in both the patrol division and on the Northern Nevada Interdiction Task Force alongside his partner, Deputy Dunham.Kyago played a crucial role in removing millions of dollars worth of illicit narcotics from our streets and, with his social disposition, was always a crowd favorite at community events.“Our K9s not only help to ensure the safety of our community, but they are beloved members of our office who bring our community together,” said Sheriff Balaam. “On behalf of the entire Sheriff’s Office, thank you for your dedicated service, Kyago! Enjoy your well-earned retirement with your family.”After retiring in January 2024, he enjoyed his well-earned time with the people who loved him most.Our deepest condolences go out to Deputy Dunham and his family. Thank you, K9 Kyago, for your service, loyalty, and bravery. You will never be forgotten.

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.