Critically-Wounded Anaheim Police Dog Bruno Released From Hospital
ANAHEIM (CBSLA.com) — Orange County's most beloved canine cop is going home.
KNX 1070's Mike Landa reports Anaheim Police Service Dog Bruno took one step closer to retirement Friday with his release from Yorba Regional Animal Hospital.
Bruno, a 7-year-old German Shepherd, was critically injured in March while leading Handling Officer RJ Young to a suspect who had shot at two parole officers in Anaheim.
Veterinarians at Yorba Regional Animal Hospital performed multiple surgeries on Bruno, who Young credited with protecting him and other officers from gunfire.
"If Bruno weren't there, there's not a doubt in my mind that someone would have gotten hurt," Young said.
In a brief appearance at Friday's news conference, Bruno appeared vigorous and in good spirits. Dr. Steven Dunbar from the Yorba Regional Animal Hospital said Bruno was doing "extremely well" and that his recover was from a "very unusual injury."
While the announcement made Bruno's retirement official, Anaheim Police Lt. Bob Dunn said an actual ceremony will be scheduled to take place later this month.
"Bruno will receive his actual retirement papers, and then Officer Young will then purchase Bruno from the city for $1," Dunn said.
Young told CBS2's Adrianna Weingold, "I would never thought we would be here so quickly, six weeks. I thought we would still have a long road to recovery. I can't tell you how excited I am to get him home."
Officer Young will be helped with Bruno's post-retirement medical expenses by a local support group, according to reports.
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