‘It’s just a very unfortunate situation’

Saipan Humane Society founder and president Lauren Cabrera said the tragic deaths of Department of Public Safety K-9 officers Boss and Beni was a very unfortunate situation and that she sympathizes with their handlers.

“I do know that the bond between a handler and their working dog is very special. These teams spend countless hours working and training together. I feel badly that so much negativity is directed at the handlers, because I know their hearts must be broken as well. I examined these dogs in the past and it was very clear to me that their handlers cared a lot for them. It’s just a very unfortunate situation,” she said.

SHS is a non-profit organization founded in response to animal overpopulation and the need for veterinary services in the CNMI.

Cabrera said the passing of Boss and Beni also showed that heat stroke is a serious concern in a tropical island like Saipan and that the islands’ animal companions, especially dogs, are not immune to it.

“I feel very badly about the situation. It’s a very unfortunate accident. Heat stroke is a very serious issue here, and can happen very quickly. It’s important to remember that dogs cannot sweat like people do to regulate their body temperature. They rely on panting and this doesn’t work effectively at extreme temperatures and the dogs can rapidly decline.”

She then shared tips on how to avoid heat stroke on animals.

“Signs in your own pet to look out for include excessive panting, confusion, diarrhea, and beefy red gums. Dogs can develop heat stroke under any condition with excessive heat- especially those with shorter snouts like pitbulls are at higher risk.”

Saipan Cares for Animals, another non-profit animal group, echoed Cabrera’s words when it issued the following statement,” It was a very sad accident that touched each member of the community. We are also worried about the mental health of handlers who loved them so much. They need to be cared and supported also. Let’s show sympathy and kindness in such difficult moment. May the two K-9s’ souls rest in peace.”

Animal activist Tina Palacios, meanwhile, said the handlers should take some measure of responsibility in the deaths of the K-9 officers.

“It’s sad and unfortunate that the two K-9 officers died the way they did and I hope the two police officers will get to face justice for the death of the two K-9 officers. I am sorry for what happened to you two. RIP K-9 officer Beni and K9 officer Boss. K-9s go to heaven,” she said.

Earlier, DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas released a statement asking the public to tone down on the rhetoric against Beni and Boss’ handlers.

“While the loss of our canine police dogs is inherently tragic, recent criticisms overlook the critical role their handlers have developed with their canine partner. The bond between a police officer and their canine is unparalleled and unbreakable. Built on trust, loyalty, and love, this partnership is a testament to the bravery and devotion of both humans and animals. Their partnership transcends mere colleagues, it’s a deep-seated familial tie. A bond that extends far beyond duty hours, with canines often becoming integral members of the officers’ families. The loss of a canine partner is a devastating blow, leaving an unfillable void, most especially for their handlers,” he said.

Macaranas said the island community must acknowledge that the death of Beni and Boss had also deeply affected their handlers.

“Between the criticisms the officers would face and being convicted by public opinion, DPS and its command staff acknowledges the well-being of our officers, who had lost a family member. Immediate peer support, counseling, and time for grief was afforded, to include access to professional mental health services. Our commitment to officer well-being is unwavering, acknowledging the lasting impact of losing a partner and friend. We recognize and honor this extraordinary relationship, acknowledging the sacrifices made by both officers and canines in service to their community,” he said.

The police chief, in a media conference last Monday, confirmed that the failure of the air-con unit of the patrol car they were left in led to the deaths of the K-9 officers. Macaranas also said their handlers have been assigned to patrol and undergoing counseling.