Argos has been of service to the Ripon Police Department since December 2020.

He’s the German Shepherd of the K-9 Unit assigned to Officer Kyle Prather since his arrival.

Over the years, Argos has handled drug detection, apprehension, and tracking. He’s established a long and distinguished career as a police protection and narcotics dog, according to local police.

“Argos has reached an age where his health is declining and his body will not tolerate active duty,” said police Chief Daniel Sauer.

No discussion was necessary last week as elected leaders gave their OK to allow Argos to continue to stay with his handler, Officer Prather, under an adoption agreement.

The agreement was prepared using the Peace Officer Standards and Standard Training guideline along with the City’s risk management input, according to Sauer’s report.

Argos and Officer Prather have spent some 44,000 hours together at home and as patrol partners.

“His ability to continue to do police work at an acceptable level has come to an end and it is Ripon Veterinary Hospital’s recommendation he be retired from service,” Sauer said.

Officer Prather can assume responsibility for any and all other associated care, liability, and expenses associated with Argos.

The City, meanwhile, will no longer pay for the annual care and maintenance associated with Argos until such time that another K-9 is purchased.

Argos has been of service to the Ripon Police Department since December 2020.

He’s the German Shepherd of the K-9 Unit assigned to Officer Kyle Prather since his arrival.

Over the years, Argos has handled drug detection, apprehension, and tracking. He’s established a long and distinguished career as a police protection and narcotics dog, according to local police.

“Argos has reached an age where his health is declining and his body will not tolerate active duty,” said police Chief Daniel Sauer.

No discussion was necessary last week as elected leaders gave their OK to allow Argos to continue to stay with his handler, Officer Prather, under an adoption agreement.

The agreement was prepared using the Peace Officer Standards and Standard Training guideline along with the City’s risk management input, according to Sauer’s report.

Argos and Officer Prather have spent some 44,000 hours together at home and as patrol partners.

“His ability to continue to do police work at an acceptable level has come to an end and it is Ripon Veterinary Hospital’s recommendation he be retired from service,” Sauer said.

Officer Prather can assume responsibility for any and all other associated care, liability, and expenses associated with Argos.

The City, meanwhile, will no longer pay for the annual care and maintenance associated with Argos until such time that another K-9 is purchased.