CANBY, Ore. - A K-9 cop from Canby that was diagnosed with cancer was euthanized Thursday evening after an MRI determined the dog's tumor was inoperable and was causing him a great deal of pain.

'Jalk' (pronounced 'yawk') went in on Thursday for an MRI to see if veterinarians could operate on the cancerous tumor in his neck area, but the tumor was found to be wrapped around his airway, major nerves and blood vessels.  The tumor was also pushing his airway to the side.

"I don't like seeing any animals suffer, but especially one I'm very close to," said Officer Chris Mead with the Canby Police Department.  "He's like one of my children, like a family member."

Mead and Dr. Kim Freeman of NW Veterinary Specialists made the decision that it would be in Jalk's best interest to euthanize him while he was still sedated from the MRI.  Mead was by his side during the procedure.

The Canby Police Department's K-9 program is funded entirely by donations and they will be seeking funds to find a replacement K-9 partner for Mead.  To help out, you can mail donations to:

Canby Police Department K9 Fund
122 N. Holly
Canby, OR 97013