Foxborough Police K-9 Drax Retires Because of Brain Tumor

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Drax, a K-9 unit with Foxborough police, has spent the last two years helping officers track suspects, missing children and illegal drugs. But his career has come to an abrupt end after being diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Officer Kurt Pollister was the handler for Drax, the 3-year-old German/Dutch shepherd mix. Recently, Pollister noticed some changes in Drax's eating habits and brought him to a veterinarian, where Drax was diagnosed with the tumor.

Police said Drax has already begun radiation treatment and is showing signs of improvement, but his career with the Foxborough Police Department has to end. Pollister adopted Drax has his pet.

"During his short career, Drax has provided an invaluable service to the department and to the community," police said in a statement. "From locating narcotics during motor vehicle stops to tracking down missing children, adults, or wanted suspects, Drax has made a positive impact on the community he loyally served."

Police said Pollister will continue the K-9 unit program thanks to donations from Massachusetts Vest-A-Dog. Pollister will train a new K-9 in the coming months.