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Dallas K-9 Officer Overcomes Heat Exhaustion, Receives Hero's Welcome
20 Aug
Summary
- Dallas police K-9 Max suffers heat exhaustion during manhunt
- Rushed to emergency vet, now recovering at handler's home
- Department has strict policies to protect K-9s in extreme weather

In a concerning incident last month, a Dallas Police K-9 officer named Max was hospitalized for heat exhaustion while on duty. The 2-year-old German Shepherd was participating in a manhunt along Highland Road in East Dallas when he began showing signs of heat-related illness.
Dallas Police immediately rushed Max to the emergency veterinary hospital, MedVet Dallas, for treatment. After receiving care, Max was released on Wednesday and given a hero's welcome by his fellow officers, handlers, and staff.
The Dallas Police Department has strict policies in place to protect their K-9 units during extreme weather conditions. Handlers are trained to recognize signs of exhaustion, and each police vehicle is equipped with a heat alarm system. Dogs are not left unattended for more than 10 minutes, and they are provided with regular breaks and water throughout their shifts.
While there is no specific temperature threshold for K-9 deployment, the department's spokesperson emphasized that handlers receive extensive training on canine health and safety, including heat-related stress. Max is now recovering at his handler's home and is expected to make a full recovery.