Few bonds run deeper than the one shared between a K9 and their human partner. That connection—forged through training, service, and years of shared experiences—is powerful, loyal, and often, unbreakable. Such was the bond between Rex, a retired K9, and his handler, Mateo, a decorated military veteran and search-and-rescue operator.

When Mateo passed away unexpectedly due to a heart condition, those close to him were devastated. But perhaps no one took the loss harder than Rex, the German Shepherd who had stood by Mateo through war zones and disaster response missions—and ultimately, through his final farewell. Continue reading…