01/04/2026
We’d like to announce the well earned retirement of K9 Garin. This is bittersweet news, for us. As happy as we are for K9 Garin to enjoy the lavish life of a “regular” dog, this also marks the end of Deputy Maul’s time on the K9 team. We will miss them both. We, at FSC-K9, would like to especially thank Sgt. Maul for all the time he has dedicated over the years to ensure that we are successful in our mission to educate the public on the modern day use of the law enforcement K9. He’s logged untold hours at schools and community events and his efforts are truly appreciated.
We have put together a short video to commemorate Garin’s time on patrol and Sgt. Maul has provided the following letter:
Hello Friends
Well, after two stints and almost 12 years on the roster, the time has come to call it a wrap on the Sheriffs K9 TEAM. As my career winds down, moving to a new position in the department, the time to step down was a difficult but necessary choice. Starting with K9 Larus in 2010, retiring him in 2014, then getting back on the team a few years later with K9 Garin, simply put, my time on the Shasta County Sheriff’s K9 unit was the best gig in the world hands down. Wouldn’t trade it for anything. The dogs are the stars though. They love what they do. K9 Garin was no different. He loved to work, he loved to cruise the rural beats of Shasta County at 4 am, windows down, classic rock playing, on full alert looking for bad guys. At home, he was my family, my kid, my therapist, my goofball and my bodyguard on walks. Simply put, he was my boy. Although our street time is over, I am thankful we get to leave the team together and blessed he will spend the rest of his days living the good life. Yes, I spoil him beyond comprehension. He’s earned it. For whatever I give him, he has paid me back 10X’s that and more. Much love to Garin’s fan club out there, you are greatly appreciated. While I am at it, I owe thanks to many others as well. Starting with the Sheriff’s Department and the Friends of Shasta County K9 for the privilege of working with these dogs over the years. To Tina and the staff at Asher VCA for always taking care of Garin’s medical needs, to current team admin and young buck handlers working dogs now, keep the standard rolling guys. And of course, to past K9 Team Members and Team Admin, you guys made it the best time to be a K9 cop. Will never forget those days. Never.
PS, lastly to Garin, to my Bestest-Boi, no more bouncing around 12 hours shifts in the back of a patrol car or putting up with my antics. You’ve earned your time to rest, enjoy it buddy, dad is proud and loves you very much.
Again, thank you all, Gerry Maul, S218
