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Those of you who didn’t get to know Rocco missed an opportunity to meet one of the best. Rocco was easily a breed ambassador that personified “The Goodest Boy”. Rocco began his life on July 21, 2009 and was a detection K9 for the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in New Jersey until 2017 when his care was entrusted to me. After three months of retirement Rocco was clearly wondering why he wasn’t working anymore. He needed something to do, he was quickly certified as an AKC Good Canine Citizen and then we went ‘to work’ on becoming a therapy dog team via The Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Rocco and I were granted our certification and he began to serve his community again supporting the Lynchburg, Virginia first responders, veterans and on occasion the local university students during finals week. Rocco brough love and light wherever he went, when you expected a serious retired K9 you got a total ham and you couldn’t help but smile.
Rocco’s two passions in life were food and toys. I quickly found out that he was knowledgeable of the words “Burger King”, “French Fries” and other fast-food terms. Those always were his favorite visits if we were just catching someone at lunch or pulling up to a drive through window as a treat for a job well done. However, he was always a little disappointed at the toll booth or bank teller. Different window, but he was always hopeful. Rocco received his absolute favorite toy last Christmas (2020), a giant Kong ball that squeaked. Rocco was holding that toy minutes before he ran to heaven. He was sent on his way with his ball, blanket and lanyard with name and badge number.
Every year, including his last, Rocco and I participated in the 5k Run for the Badge for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. This year Rocco walked two miles before he needed a rest and I carried on for us.
Rocco’s body let go before his mind or heart did, as with many dogs of this breed he was vigilant until the end. We were lucky enough to have a very clear decision ahead of us and he spent his last days in comfort lounging on the couch eating pizza and other items that he most preferred over kibble.
When appointment time came the afternoon of December 26th, he had lived a full life, given most of it to his communities no matter where he was. Rocco was an outstanding citizen, and we can only hope to meet more like him throughout our time here, those that light up a room and warm even the most timid hearts.
A special thank you to the at home services of Dr. Suzanne, the Lehigh Valley Animal Crematory Services, the MSCO Canine division for entrusting me with Rocco’s care, and to the Sheepdog Cigar Club for their heartfelt gift.
“If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart and I’ll stay there forever”
Please consider donating to your local Canine Unit a bullet and stab proof vest for the active-duty canines or to organizations like the Sheepdog Cigar Club that help with the cost of care in life or the final rest for our beloved companions that take care of us.
Owned by Emily Berthoud
