At 8-1/2 years old, or 59-1/2 in human years, Radar, the Marysville police K-9 dog, is officially retired.

The German shepherd's retirement is a bittersweet moment for the force, because of the loyalty and honor he brought to the team. He was considered a family member by the men and women with whom he helped prevent crime over the years.

But his great qualities could not overcome the fact that Radar is not the same pup that he was when he came to the squad. He has shoulder and neck injuries and walks with a small limp that came from "his dedicated, full-out attitude during captures," said K-9 Sergeant Mark Thomas.

While on the K-9 Unit, the golden and black-haired crime sniffer built an impressive record that gained recognition in cities across Snohomish County. Radar has 3,534 hours of logged duty and a success rating of 62.8 percent. He was deployed 231 times with 68 captures and 38 demonstrations under his collar. Radar was also used 107 times outside the Marysville city limits after he was asked for by name from other departments.

What is most remarkable, according to Sergeant Thomas, is Radar's stellar record of no lawsuits or costs incurred for damages.

As a retiree, Radar will enjoy long runs in the grass, chasing after slobbery balls, and taking cool dips in the river before summer ends. His handler, Stacy Dryer, and his family will care for Radar.

Radar's replacement on the force is named Ranger.

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