Losing a loved one is never easy. You usually end up thinking, “I wish I could spend some more time with you.” There are things that remain unsaid and unexpressed, which will continue to remain in the same way, and you can do nothing but regret about it. It takes great courage to move on when a big piece from the jigsaw of your life is missing with no possibility of coming back.Officer Toby, who is a head K9 trainer, raised and trained Bronson since he was a 12-week-old puppy. He taught him about the duties of being a helpful and a well-trained police dog.
Branson was a true partner to Toby, be it professionally or personally. He was a patrol dog but also worked in explosives detection which made the Officer duly proud of his friend.
Branson’s condition had reached a point where his health showed no signs of improvement and was continuously deteriorating. They did everything in their power but nothing worked.
The painful thought of saying goodbye to a dear friend is never on mind. But it is a reality of life that people have to accept irrespective of their emotions. Thus, he wrote a heart-touching letter as a farewell to Branson.
He wrote, “On Sunday, January 15, 2017, I lost my K9 partner of eight years. Boston Police K9 Bronson passed away at home after a sudden illness. I raised him as a puppy from 12 weeks old and he was by my side until he passed away at the age of 9. Bronson was what I love to see in a police dog: high energy level, always ready to work, confident, good temperament and a bit of a punk.”
Reliving the memories of his bud, he shared, “He rode along side of me for countless shifts patrolling the City of Boston and I always knew that he was ready for anything we encountered. On what would end up being our final night together, when I knew he was slipping away and he wouldn’t last much longer, I spent time with him sitting in my yard with his head in my lap, just talking to him.”
He continued, “So as you go about your busy day and your dog is staring at you for a little attention or play time, take a few minutes for them. All they want to do is please you and spend a little time with you. They won’t be here for long.”
Likewise, the little Branson, who joined the force in August 2016, gave more than expected to the department. Though his physical absence will always be felt, he will continue to live in Toby’s heart and his memories.
