Retired Citrus County K9 passes away from cancer 'Surrounded by love'

The Citrus County Sheriff's Office is mourning the passing of retired K9 Ally, who succumbed to cancer over the weekend. A dedicated service dog, Ally completed 119 deployments and had 29 confirmed track and finds, demonstrating her remarkable scent detection abilities. She retired in October 2024 alongside her handler, Sergeant Dearden, who noted that Ally was "surrounded by love" in her retirement years. The sheriff's office expressed their sorrow, emphasizing the profound bond between K9s and their human partners in law enforcement. Ally's legacy will continue to resonate within the community, as she played a crucial role in ensuring public safety during her decade of service.

The emotional impact of her passing highlights the importance of K9 units in law enforcement. The community is invited to share their memories of Ally and honor her contributions. Her story serves as a reminder of the dedication and loyalty that service animals bring to their roles.