Retired Florida police dog runs again with donated custom prosthetic leg

A retired police dog in Florida is running and playing again after being fitted with a custom prosthetic leg, The Cool Down reported. K9 Ace, who served with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, lost his left front leg and shoulder blade after being shot during an ambush in the line of duty. As HEROIC BREAKING NEWS reported earlier, the shooting occurred in August during an encounter in which the suspect died in a shootout with deputies. [1][3]

Following the injury, Ace's handler, Deputy Natalie Oestreich, contacted a clinic to ask about potential mobility options for the retired dog, according to The Cool Down. Westcoast Brace and Limb, a specialized clinic located in St. Petersburg, Florida, responded by donating a custom-built prosthetic limb designed specifically for Ace. [1]

Just three weeks after receiving the artificial limb from Westcoast Brace and Limb, Ace was moving independently, according to reports from The Cool Down and WTVT. As HEROIC BREAKING NEWS reported earlier, the dog no longer required support from a walking harness or assistance from his handler. Ace has now regained his full mobility, allowing him to run, jump, and play freely once again. [1][3]