20-02-2025
Police Department in Wisconsin mourns loss of retired K-9 born in Germany, aided in high risk searches
CUDAHY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Cudahy Police Department is in mourning after the loss of beloved retiree police K-9 Rex, who passed away on Sunday, February 9 at the age of 12.
Born in Germany on June 21, 2013, the German Shepherd spent time training and earning his certification before coming to America as a police K-9 with multiple areas of expertise including the following:
Narcotics detection
Building searches
Tracking
Criminal apprehensions
Officer protection
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Rex was also trained in obedience and could run eight miles in a specific time frame for certification. His birth name in Germany was 'Monster vom Lisdorferland,' but changed when he came to the United States in February 2015.
The name Rex came from the grandmother of his handler, Corporal Holly Bhirdo, who chose the name.
'Rex was a valuable asset and partner to not only Cpl. Bhirdo but to all of the men & women of the Cudahy Police Department,' the post said. 'Rex and Cpl. Bhirdo also assisted the Milwaukee FBI in several operations while both served the community on active duty.'
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In addition, the duo of Rex and Cpl. Bhirdo worked with the South Shore Joint Tactical Unit, assisting in multiple high-risk search warrants and tactical operations in the county.
When Cpl. Bhirdo took a break from the force in April 2021, Rex joined along and retired to live at home. Rex passed away on February 9, surrounded by the family.
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