Major has always captured the hearts of many with his personal demeanor despite being a strong Police Service Dog. He’s a 9 1/2 year old German Shepherd, and has been a K9 for Roseville PD since June 2003 with his partner John Jorgensen. Major is cross-trained in Patrol work and Narcotics Detection, and has assisted in apprehending over 250 criminals in his career.
Last month I had the honor of photographing Major and his partner, John, during his routine physical therapy at the U of M rehabilitation clinic. In Nov. 2010, K9 Major was stabbed 4 times with a butterfly knife while apprehending a burglary suspect. Vets at the U of M were able to save him despite massive blood loss, a collapsed lung and other injuries. Major has lost the use of his back legs as a result of the stabbing.
After Major’s injuries, MN K9 handlers have proposed legislation to increase penalties for offenders who harm Public Safety Dogs. K9 Major recently received his “wheels” to help him get around and is slowly adjusting to not being a Police Dog anymore. Major is resting at home with his family, trying to enjoy his well earned retirement. He has received numerous awards including recently being inducted into the MN Animal Hall of Fame after receiving the “Animal Hero Award” in February.
John and Major plan on visiting wheelchair bound children in the future at various hospitals and clinics. I’m very much looking forward to photographing the “retiree” running around with his new wheels this summer!
GREAT JOB, SB. What an honor is right!
Love all the pictures, Such a great job!!
what a great story…
major looks very happy. :)
Great shots! Can’t wait to see his progress through your lens:) Ladybug has been in that treadmill tank – amazing things happen in that rehabilitation room!
awesome sarah. he’s very sweet. these are lovely.
this is so very touching and beautiful.
I love that you can help bring the Major story to more people. I know that his work will bring joy to many in hospitals & clinics.
Thank you, Major.
These pictures are wonderful! What a sweet dog!
this story brought tears to my eyes, beautiful photos of a corageous dog
This made me cry. I really hope the govt passes the proposed legislation. I forwarded the post to my father in law, he used to train search and rescue dogs and my husband grew up with german shepards. The last photograph just melted my heart.
Sarah…..These pictures of Major are outstanding. I am John’s Mom and I know how much he appreciates everything being done for Major. I am trying to put together a book for him covering Major’s career and would love to purchase some of your pics. Is that possible? The last one also tugged at my heart stings. He is a wonderful dog. Thanks Anne
I love seeing these photographs. Major is a beautiful and spirited dog! He’s inspiring.
Major and his story is inspiring itself.
Hi there! I had the pleasure of workin with Major at the U of M while completing my internship as a vet tech from Jan to April 2011. I chose rehabilitaion paticularly because major was there being treated. He is a remarkable dog with a strong will! I miss him and think of him often.These pictures capture him perfectly!! They’re great!
Stephanie
1-9-12