Malaysia’s K9 Unit dogs are vital members of law enforcement, assisting in drug detection, suspect tracking, and protection. However, as they age or develop health issues, they eventually retire usually between 8 to 10 years old, depending on their fitness and veterinarian evaluations. Assistant Deputy Director ACP Zuraimi Zam Zam emphasized that these dogs receive meticulous medical care, including monthly check-ups and emergency treatment from veterinary hospitals. When ill, they are cared for around-the-clock in K9 Unit kennels. As government assets, they cannot be adopted or taken home by handlers for security reasons. The unit rejects euthanasia except as an absolute last resort, when a dog is no longer able to function or live comfortably. Retired dogs continue to live in their kennels, where they’re loved and cared for by staff. Zuraimi also noted that Malaysia lacks sufficient police dogs, needing about 95 new canines to replace retired or deceased ones. He aims to acquire 25 new dogs every two years to meet operational needs. He concluded by stressing that K9s deserve the same respect as humans, as they dedicate their lives to service and remain “cops” until their last breath.
Source:
Palansamy, Y. (2025, January 12). Life after K9: What happens to our canine heroes when they can no longer serve? (VIDEO). Malay Mail. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/01/12/life-after-k9-what-happens-to-our-canine-heroes-when-they-can-no-longer-serve/159643