Kendall County's K-9, Taz, Retires After 8 Years Of Service

YORKVILLE, IL — Taz, an 11-year-old German shepherd is retiring from the K-9 unit at the Kendall County Sheriff's Office. He's spent the past eight years serving the community and the department, a press release said. Sheriff Dwight Baird presented a plaque to Taz's handler, Deputy Flanders, in honor of his service.

Taz is a dual purpose dog from Poland, who specialized in narcotics detection and patrol work. He could track, protect, and search evidence. In 2009, Taz and Flanders trained together in Indiana for around four months, and Taz was ready for service on New Year's Day in 2010.

“Being a K-9 handler was a childhood dream of mine and I am grateful that the Sheriff’s Office gave me the opportunity to realize my dream and I could not ask for a better partner than Taz," said Deputy Flanders. "The bond shared between a K-9 handler and partner is unlike any other.”

Sheriff Baird added, “K-9 Taz and Deputy Flanders have been an outstanding team and I couldn’t be any prouder of the work they have done. Our K-9 teams, both past and present, have always been a key in our mission to protect and serve.”

Deputy Nancy Velez, spokesperson with the Sheriff's Office, said Taz will be enjoying his retirement with his handler.

Pictured from left to right: Deputy Jason Flanders, Canine Taz, Sheriff Dwight Baird (Kendall County Sheriff's Office)