One of Gwinnett’s hardest-working police dogs is hanging up his collar. K9 Nitro is stepping back after eight years helping keep the county safe.
🚓 What’s Happening: Nitro, a 9-year-old Belgian Malinois from the Special Operations Division, is retiring on a vet’s advice due to age-related heat sensitivity and mobility issues. He’ll live with his handler, Sgt. Brian E. Doan.
- His record: 353 calls, 64 apprehensions, 35 narcotics finds, 73 evidence finds, nearly 2,000 training hours, three Officer of the Month awards, and recognition from the District Attorney’s Office.
🧠Between the Lines: Georgia heat is rough on aging working dogs. Departments balance public safety with the health of seasoned K9s to prevent injuries and heat stress.
⏪ Catch Up Quick: Nitro served alongside Gwinnett officers for most of a decade. As K9 Nitro retires at home with Sgt. Doan, K9 Ace prepares to join the unit later this year…