Washoe County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Kraft died of health complications Saturday. Deputy Corey Solferino, his handler of two years, was by his side.

Undersheriff Todd Vinger said the passing of Kraft will be a great loss for the agency, but even a greater loss for Kraft’s handler and partner.

Deputy Corey Solferino with Kraft. Photo/Provided

“Kraft was a rising star with our agency,” Vinger said in statement of the Czech Shepherd. “Like all of our service dogs, he was a humble hero; completely dedicated to his work and was an exemplary performer.”

Kraft was acquired by the sheriff’s office through a private donation by Cal Sierra Express Trucking. Kraft was trained as a dual purpose K-9, working patrol and narcotics. He was certified in evidence and article search. Evidence search certification allows the K-9 to assist in solving or assisting in cases where a suspect has discarded or ,hidden a weapon or other articles.

Born Jan. 6, 2006 in the Czech Republic, Kraft was trained to respond to Czechoslovakian commands. In addition to tracking down a considerable amount of drugs during his years with the sheriff’s office, K-9 Kraft assisted with several missing persons investigations.

Deputy Solferino said Kraft could not wait to go to work.

Although committed to his work, Kraft was also a beloved family member.

“The second we got to the house and I took off his work collar, he knew he was home,” Solferino said.