KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | K9 Officer Reno Released from Hospital Following Deadly Shootout

K9 Officer Reno Released from Hospital Following Deadly Shootout

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By: Ashley Ritchie

Moments after being shot in the face Tuesday, Fresno County K9 Officer Reno walked on his own into a deputy's car and was taken immediately to the Central Fresno Animal Hospital.

"They immediately opened their doors, gave great treatment and I believe they saved Reno's life," Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims said.

A little more than 24 hours later, Reno walked on his own again, this time out the door.

"To be able to be in this business, you have to be ‘Reno Tough' and that's my new definition of tough these days," Mims said.

The six-year-old German Shepherd came into the hospital fighting for his life.

But despite losing his left eye, Reno's recovery has been rapid.

"Their tissues heal faster, their spirits heal faster. He doesn't know he's missing his eye. He can still see. He can still eat. He can still be with his dad. So he's very happy," Rachel Horne, Central Fresno Animal Hospital, said.

"I think it's a testament to Rob and Reno's relationship that Reno didn't want to stop yet, he wanted to keep going, especially when he came out. He looked like he was ready to go to work, wanted to get in that patrol car," Jeff Stricker, Fresno County Deputy Sheriff K9 Handler, said.

Stricker says K9 officers like Reno become part of the family and everyday way of life.

"This dog is your body of work. When he had his good moments, you're so proud of him. And when he has bad moments, you're disappointed," he said.

But with Reno, the disappointments are few.

"Reno's an excellent dog. He's a great tracker, great patrol dog. He's a very good dog and for this to happen to him is absolutely tragic," Stricker said.

But now they are thankful this four-legged hero is on the road to recovery.

Despite losing an eye, Sheriff Mims says this may not be the end of Reno's career with the department.

She says if Reno's sight doesn't recover, there are other things he can do like train to become a narcotics dog or a personal protection dog.

Reno's Handler Deputy Robert Marean released a statement Wednesday saying "I want to express my sincere thanks to everyone at the scene and here at Veterinary Emergency Services who helped save Reno's life... However, I don't want to overshadow the trauma and injuries suffered by Deputy Ozburn and Deputy Eaton."