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Retired UPD K-9 remembered for 12 years of service

A golden retriever named Ginger is pictured her wearing her police vest and getting pets from fans.

The University Police Department remembers K-9 Ginger, who retired and passed away in April from cancer.

Ginger, a golden retriever, served the department as an explosives detection K-9 for 12 years.

Alongside her handler, previous UPD Officer Josh Cook, she provided security at large campus and community events, sniffing out venues like Milan Puskar Stadium and the Coliseum before games or checking unattended bags at state government events.

Off the clock, Ginger was a loyal companion to Cook’s family and was a lover of all peanut butter treats, cooked broccoli and the game of fetch. She was named a K-9 of Excellence in 2016 by the Governor’s Office and the American Kennel Club.

Thank you, Ginger, for your service, dedication and companionship.