Beloved police dog dies days after cancer diagnosis. ‘Beacon of comfort and joy’

A university’s police dog, who provided comfort and a form of therapy for students, died one week after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.

The dog named River had surgery to treat a tumor in his back leg, Michigan State University’s Police and Public Safety Office said on Dec. 12.

The announcement came just two days after River’s third birthday. River’s handler, Lt. Kim Parviainen, first noticed the dog “wasn’t acting like his normal self and was limping” shortly before the day of celebration.

But as the terminal cancer — called hemangiosarcoma — worsened, River died Dec. 16, university officials said.

“River was more than just a member of our team; he was part of our family,” the department said. “For those who have had the pleasure of meeting River, you know just how he touched the lives of so many Spartans. With his gentle demeanor and wagging tail, River had become a beacon of comfort and joy for students, faculty, and staff.”

The East Lansing university introduced River to the community in January after he completed Paws with a Cause’s “lengthy training program” to become certified. He was named after Red Cedar River, which runs through the campus.

The golden retriever’s duties included attending campus events and “addressing wellness needs” for students, faculty and staff, the university said.

“River’s presence on campus was more than just comforting; it was therapeutic,” the police and public safety office said. “In times of stress, exams, or just the hustle and bustle of life, River provided an opportunity for everyone to pause, take a deep breath, and enjoy a moment of calm. His impact was immeasurable, offering not just a distraction but genuine emotional support.”

The department shared River’s goofy side on his own Instagram page, which included a back-to-school post in August. The post said the 75-pound dog loved “going to work, getting belly rubs & looking for squirrels on campus.”