Related Articles
Died 6/7/24
Handler – Sgt. Thomas Moser
Garfield County Sheriff’s Department mourns beloved K9 Officer Rex
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Department bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished members, K9 Officer Rex, who was euthanized on Friday due to complications from bone cancer. Rex, a vital part of the force, was believed to be about eight years old and originally from Slovakia. His exact age remains uncertain after his importation papers were lost.“It’s something we all have to deal with as handlers. We know it’s coming, it just came quicker than we thought it would,” Sgt. Thomas Moser said. “He is a big part of this department and we are going to miss him, but it’s time.”Moser, Rex’s handler, has been by his side throughout his service and was deeply affected by his decline.“I thought I’d have another year or two with him,” he said, emphasizing the suddenness of Rex’s deterioration.During his tenure, Rex was a formidable force against crime, participating in roughly 165 narcotics deployments and approximately 35 patrol operations. These efforts led to about 50 arrests, showcasing his effectiveness in law enforcement activities.One notable incident in Rex’s career occurred when he was attacked by an assailant with a knife in a river, which left him with a permanent ‘cauliflower ear.’ Despite the injury, Rex maintained his playful spirit and continued to serve.“He’s kind of just a goofball and a junkyard dog at the same time,” Moser recounted fondly.Beyond his law enforcement duties, Rex had a beloved toy, a pineapple, which he cherished as his “pacifier.” This toy accompanied him on walks and was a constant source of comfort. “He likes to just carry it around everywhere he goes,” Moser said, detailing how Rex would bury it in the snow and happily dig it out repeatedly during winter months.Rex’s battle with cancer began last October when it first manifested between his toes. After the removal of one toe in November, his handlers hoped for recovery. However, the cancer returned aggressively, affecting other areas of his paw. “It seems to be really aggressive and it’s gotten a bit worse even in the last three or four days,” Moser explained, noting the rapid progression of the disease and the severe impact on Rex’s quality of life.Cpl. Trisha Worley also shared her emotions regarding Rex’s passing.“It’s heartbreaking. We are a big family and we spend a lot of time together,” Worley said, highlighting the close-knit nature of the K9 unit. Worley described Rex as “full of character” and noted how he balanced his protective instincts with a bubbly personality that endeared him to all.“He knows when it’s time to work and he knows when he can relax a little bit,” Worley said. “He is such a character that brightens your day every time you see him.”During Thursday’s farewell gathering at the Garfield County’s Sheriff’s Office in Rifle, Rex displayed that character, constantly finding his way to the pulled pork and ribs catered for his goodbye despite his complications.At home, Rex was much more than a police dog; he was a cherished member of the Moser family.“At home, he’s definitely a different dog. He’s a lot more relaxed,” Moser shared. He described how Rex was particularly calm around his wife and enjoyed a gentle companionship with other family pets, including a barn cat with whom he shared a special bond during the colder months.“It’s not going to be the same without him,” Moser said. “He has been by my side making sure that I have made it home each night for the past five or so years. He’s been my best friend.”
