Kylo, one of 'friendliest police dogs in the service,' mourned by Peel police
· Toronto Sun
Another good boy gone too soon.
Peel Regional Police are mourning one of their own after active service dog Kylo, a seven-year-old Belgian shepherd, died of cancer over the weekend.
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Kylo was bred in the Netherlands and served on the force as a general service dog, while also being trained in narcotics detection, alongside his handler Const. Mario Pittarelli from January 2019 until his death on Friday.
‘Significant loss to the service’
They said the sudden passing of Kylo, who joined the canine unit for training in 2018, is a “significant loss to the service, his handler and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
“His dedication, loyalty and contributions to public safety will not be forgotten,” police said.
Police said Kylo supported Pittarelli on “thousands of calls,” assisted in “numerous investigations” and was responsible for more than 100 arrests, including “extensive work at Toronto Pearson International Airport in partnership with the Canada Border Services Agency and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.”
He also played a “significant role” in auto theft and organized crime investigations in the region.
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Kylo’s ‘enthusiasm was constant’
After a driver allegedly tried to drive toward officers during an October 2020 investigation in Mississauga, Kylo tracked a suspect without incident after he ditched the vehicle and fled. No one was injured as a result.
“Kylo was also affectionately known as one of the friendliest police dogs in the service,” Peel police said in a tribute on their website. “He brought unmatched energy to his work. Whether eagerly searching for narcotics or chewing on his favourite ball, his enthusiasm was constant.
“Kylo’s strong drive, paired with his approachable temperament, made him not only an exceptional working dog, but also a beloved member of the policing community and the Peel Regional Police family.”