FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — A police dog shot in the line of duty has been released from an animal hospital a day after undergoing surgery.
The 4-year-old named Appie was shot while responding to a burglary in Fort Lauderdale neighborhood of Lauderdale Manors. While running after the suspect, he was shot.
Fast forward to Thursday, where Appie was met with thunderous applause as he exited Blue Pearl Pet Hospital.
“Today, needless to say, is a powerful and emotional day for out department and community as we welcome home K-9 Appie,” said Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz.
Schultz said the K-9 was a hero.
“Appie represents the very best in law enforcement,” he said. “Courage, loyalty, steadfast commitment to protect protecting others at great personal risk.”
On Saturday, Appie was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic after being shot in the shoulder while chasing down a suspect.
“There was some blood loss and he did have some life-threatening changes to his heart rhythm,” said veterinarian Dr. Sagen Woolery. “The team did an amazing job at keeping him safe. He underwent surgery to repair a fractured arm. “
Despite the lengthy five-hour surgery, the bone was repaired almost back to perfect, medical staff says.
“We’re hopeful that Appie is going to make a full recovery,” said Woolery. “We hopeful he’ll be able to go back to work when this time is done.”
While recovering, Appie received plenty of love from his partner, Officer Guzman.
Meanwhile, suspect Christian Bouie is facing several charges, including possible federal charges, in connection to the shooting that injured Appie.
“Most people look at them as dogs, but he’s one of us,” said Fort Lauderdale Police Sgt. Don Geiger. “He’s an officer with us. He’s a partner.”
Medical officials believe Appie will be recovering for around three-to-four months.
Meanwhile, PETA sent the department a letter urging Appie to be retired.
PETA said it wants FLPD to “replace K-9s with state-of-the-art policing technology, such as tactical robots, drones, and/or portable mass spectrometers.”
Schultz was asked about PETA’s letter.
“It’s totally up to the handler,” he said. “Appie, his recovery, his ability to return to full duty, we do give the option. Regarding the entire program, our animal partners are extremely important to our agency.”
Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
