Orem police dog dies of cancer

OREM — Orem police are launching a campaign to replace a K-9 named Rudy who lost a battle with cancer after seven years on the force.

Orem authorities said Thursday that Rudy had a cancerous growth on his liver and had to be euthanized to ease his suffering.

They say the Belgian Malinois was responsible for helping locate hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal drugs and catch a number of violent suspects. He was also active on the SWAT team and participated in school and community presentations.

Police say they hadn’t budgeted for Rudy’s replacement because his death was unexpected.

They’re now seeking funds through the Orem police website to help with the estimated $11,000 needed to buy another trained K-9.