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 Blaze, on the job. (Courtesy photo) [Click to enlarge] |
Blaze had been declining the past several years, the department said, and was on medication for several ailments, including pneumonia and arthritis. He also had a tumor that was inoperable.
But Blaze's condition had deteriorated dramatically the past two days. After consulting with a veterinarian, it was decided to put Blaze down.
City fire fighters reminisced today about Blaze's role at the department. Mark Eiler said the department has had three dogs in the past 20 years but that Blaze was unusually suited for the job.
"He was so easy going," Eiler said. "Anyone could walk in and he would never growl at them."
"A lot of kids learned from him how to stop, drop and roll," added Rick Metcalf. "Kids could roll all over him and he wouldn't care. "
"We're all heartsick," said McCook Fire Chief Marc Harpham. " He was a unique dog."
Blaze was originally a runt from a litter that was going to be put down if a home couldn't be found. Luckily, he ended up at the McCook City Fire Department.
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This is very sad for all firemen that had the chance to meet Blaze. I first met him while picking up the fire house for the Haigler Fire Dept. My daughter was with me and as the Little fireman for the department she informed the firemen that we needed a Blaze at our deparment. She then told them that he was very good at teaching people to stop drop and roll (which she practiced very often because Blaze taught her to do it :)) I really feel for you all at the Mccook Department. My deepest sympathy is with you all.