MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Mikey, a distinguished K9 officer with the Miami Beach Police Department, retired Friday after seven dedicated years on the force.
A 10-year-old Belgian Malinois, Mikey will now enjoy retirement with his handler, Officer Emilio Garcia.
Despite his playful demeanor, Mikey apprehended extremely dangerous criminals while patrolling Miami Beach.
"We have a dog that can go out, do his job and do everything we need him to do, and then, in turn, take him to the youngest of kids and be playful," said Garcia on his partner's last day.
Mikey was purchased by the department when he was 3-years-old and was partnered with Garcia two years later.
"I got the luck of being partnered up with K9 Mikey," Garcia added.
So after seven years pounding the pavement, Mikey has earned his well-deserved rest.
"I can actually give him a life of fun and happiness," Garcia said. "He's done a lot for me, he's done a lot for the city. So the least we could do is reward him and just let him be a dog."