After nearly two years protecting the community, New Philadelphia Police K9 Pablo will soon undergo life-saving surgery and is expected to be medically retired from duty.
Officer Tristan Lambert, who has served as Pablo’s handler since June 2023, said changes in the dog’s breathing first raised concern.
“It was a deep, raspy gasping sound,” Lambert said. “That’s what kind of tipped us off that something wasn’t right.”
A veterinarian suspected laryngeal paralysis, a condition in which the muscles in the throat fail to function properly, restricting airflow. A specialist later confirmed the diagnosis.
Laryngeal paralysis prevents a dog from inhaling enough air and typically worsens over time. Lambert said the condition can also become neurological, potentially affecting Pablo’s back legs in the future.
“He’s still breathing fine right now, but it’s something that needs to be monitored closely,” Lambert said, noting that heat exhaustion is a significant risk because Pablo cannot cool himself efficiently.
Lambert said he initially expected a minor throat issue.
“I didn’t think it was going to be something like this,” he said.
Pablo is scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure known as a “tie-back,” which will permanently hold open the flaps in his throat to allow more airflow. The procedure is expected to open his airway about 50% on each side.
While the surgery should improve breathing, it comes with added risks.
“It increases the risk of aspiration,” Lambert said, explaining that food or water could enter Pablo’s lungs more easily after the procedure.
Recovery is expected to take several months. During that time, Pablo will need to wear a harness instead of a collar, avoid strenuous activity and be closely monitored for breathing issues or signs of aspiration.
Lambert said the diagnosis has already impacted Pablo’s ability to perform his duties, particularly during warmer weather or high-exertion calls.
“He may not be suitable for active duty anymore,” Lambert said.
The department plans to medically retire Pablo following surgery and recovery. Efforts will also be made to replace him with a new K9 as soon as feasible.
Lambert, who has worked as a canine handler for nearly two years, said his interest in police K9 work dates back to childhood.
“I always thought it was exciting seeing police dogs in action,” he said.
He described Pablo as highly social and intuitive.
“He’s really good at reading the room,” Lambert said. “You can bring him into pretty much any setting and he’s comfortable.”
At home, Pablo can easily switch from work mode to relaxed mode.
“He can flip that switch,” Lambert said. “When we’re working, he’s working. When we’re home, he’s just a dog.”
Lambert said the bond between handler and K9 is unlike any other.
“I spend more time with him than I do with most people,” he said. “He’s almost like a person to me.”
Because of the strong attachment and Pablo’s medical needs, Lambert said the dog will likely be placed in a new home after retirement due to current home dynamics.
The department has received community support through donations to help offset surgery costs and assist with Pablo’s long-term care. Donations to help cover Pablo’s surgery and medical expenses can be made to the New Philadelphia Police Department’s K9 Fund. Contributions may be delivered to the department or mailed with “K9 Pablo” noted in the memo line.
Lambert expressed gratitude for that support.
“It means a lot,” he said.
Despite the circumstances, Lambert said his priority remains Pablo’s health and quality of life.
“He’s given everything he has,” Lambert said. “Now it’s about making sure he’s taken care of.”
