K9 Blackie gets his final call

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Blackie, a K9 working dog who had over 70 arrests "under his collar", was put to rest on Monday, 7 July.

Blackie, who was rescued by PAWS after he became an abandoned street dog, found a new life in the K9 unit and became Plett's hero dog. However, he was retired some months ago due to health issues.

Otto Olivier of the Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) posted a message on the association's WhatsApp group: "Today we sadly have to say: Rest in peace K9 Blackie."

After Olivier adopted him, Blackie received ongoing training and developed into a top-class working and registered K9. He had been in service for seven years.

"Blackie retired a few months ago due to medical issues. But the patrol dog in him never stopped. When I stepped out to go to work, he frequently jumped in the K9 vehicle to ride along," said Olivier.

"The difficult and heartbreaking decision was made to put Blackie to rest after his health had taken a turn for the worst. A special word of thanks to Dr Sunel Jooste of Robberg Veterinary Clinic for helping us through this heartbreaking process."

'We'll always miss you'
"We know you, my bestest partner, are in a better place now and free of pain," said Olivier. "We will miss you for ever and a bit more. Your love and the dedication showed throughout your service to Plett. We, and our town, thank you for your service. Rest in peace Buddy - you are now off duty. Salute you with pride. This was your final call. Love you partner - Otto Olivier."

A number of tributes to Blackie were received. Among them were the following:

RIP Blackie...thank you for finding our perpetrator deep under a bush and not letting go of that ankle.
Dear Blackie, I'm deeply saddened to hear about your passing. You may have been a service dog, but your impact went far beyond your duties. Your loyalty, love, and companionship touched the lives of those around you. Your memory will live on in the hearts of those you helped, and your legacy will continue to inspire. Rest in peace, dear Blackie.

K9 Blackie.