Geauga County Sheriff's Department loses second K-9 to same condition

CHARDON, Ohio - The Geauga County Sheriff’s Department has lost a second K-9 since November due to the same hereditary condition.

Sheriff Dan McClelland said the department’s dog named “Phantom” – a 2-year-old German Shepherd – had to be put down on Tuesday. The dog suffered from the same condition K-9 “Ben” had when he died on November 12, 2010.

McClelland said Phantom’s condition deteriorated very quickly in the last two weeks, and was relieved of his duties with his partner, Deputy Jim Dhayer, and his partner’s family present.

“His legacy as a sheriff’s K-9 will long be remembered,” said McClelland in a news release.

Phantom was trained in narcotics detection, tracking, utility and patrol.