CLARK, NJ — On Wednesday, March 4, a citizen contacted the Clark Police Department to report a lost dog roaming around the Clark Commons. Patrolman Nick Kurus responded and took custody of the dog and transported her to Clark Police Headquarters. At headquarters, a chip reader was used successfully to identify the number of a pet finder service. From there, Kurus contacted the service and was able to retrieve a name and phone number for the last recorded owner of the dog.
When contacted, the dog owners from Glenn Heights, Texas, were shocked by the call. They informed Kurus the dog had gone missing two years ago in Texas. They immediately made plans to fly to New Jersey, but wouldn’t arrive until Saturday, March 7. Rather than being sent to a shelter, members of the Clark Police Department cared for the dog the next three days. During that time, Clark police personnel bathed the dog, fed and provided treats, walked it regularly, and provided blankets and toys to keep her comfortable. Many of the supplies were purchased by department members out of their own pockets. Despite continuing their regular police duties, personnel made sure the dog was well cared for.
Police Director Patrick Grady said, “As a dog lover amongst many other dog lovers, we were not going to make that puppy wait in a shelter or pound. I want to commend all the officers and staff who went above and beyond to care for this dog while still performing their duties. Koko was living her best life inside the dispatch room the last three days and, hopefully, it will get even better being reunited with her family again.”
On Saturday, March 7, the owners arrived at Police Headquarters and were happily reunited with their dog. Koko was seen “running right to her mommy.” The couple were extremely grateful for the care and compassion the Clark police showed for her dog. A special thank you to Clark dispatchers Charlene Hadley, Kelly Lipinski, Ryan Wakstein and Edward Feins.
Photos Courtesy of Clark Police Department
