Sam saw plenty of action in his eight years on the force. The LOPD K-9 officer was in on almost 300 arrests and performed hundreds of searches – going in first to root out the danger that sometimes lay in an abandoned warehouse or a darkened storefront.

To those who know them, K-9 officers are a special breed.

“It’s not only like losing a pet but like losing a partner – a best friend,” said LOPD Capt. Joe Daly, Sam’s former handler, on his recent passing. During training, says Daly, “I actually spent more time with Sam than with my wife and kids.”

And to those who say, “It’s only a dog”?

“It’s very hard to explain,” says Daly. “I didn’t know the bond before I partnered with Sam. This is a dog you’re trusting with your life. It’s kind of hard to put into words.”

You just did, Joe.

So long, Sam. And thanks for looking after our friends – the men and women whose job is protecting us all.