It’s often said that time is crucial, and K9 officer Mary Lou definitely understands that!
This remarkable Bloodhound, partnered with Deputy Sarah Ernstes at Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, in Florida, demonstrated her extraordinary tracking abilities on January 26th, 2024.
The office was notified about a child who had gone missing in the vicinity, prompting Deputy Ernstes to respond promptly with her team – including Mary Lou. The K9 utilized her impressive olfactory senses, and within just a few hours, she achieved a commendable rescue!
An Impressive Ability
Deputy Ernstes, along with her teammates and Mary Lou, swiftly reacted to a call regarding the 11-year-old girl reported missing in Wimauma, Florida. Together with her handler, this astounding K9 swiftly surveyed the area and traced the girl’s scent.
After concluding their search at the neighbor’s residence, they discovered that she had been transported to one of the nearby apartment complexes.
The search brought them to a nearby park, where Mary Lou showcased her remarkable talent!
After a period of searching, she began to wag her tail close to one of the park restrooms. According to her handler, Mary Lou exhibits this behavior only when she is near someone, and this soon proved accurate!
Shortly after spotting Mary Lou positioned by the bathroom door, the officers commenced their rescue operation.
The Moment Of Sheer Delight
The video released by HCSO demonstrates Mary Lou concluding yet another successful rescue.
“Our units proceeded to that site, where K9 Mary Lou effectively alerted our deputies to a locked bathroom door within the park,” HCSO mentioned on Facebook.
After engaging in brief dialogue with the child, Deputy Ernstes managed to assure her of her safety. Then, as soon as the girl unlocked the door and emerged, a moment of sheer delight unfolded!
Mary Lou appeared incredibly excited about her rescue, eager to conclude it in the most heartwarming manner! After confirming that the girl had no apprehensions about dogs, Deputy Ernstes allowed the K9 to “do her thing.”
As a token of appreciation for locating the missing child, Mary Lou decided to plant the sweetest kiss on the girl’s face, showering her with affection. This K9 Bloodhound apparently repeats this gesture every time after a successful mission, and she did it once more this time!
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office takes immense pride in their officers who dedicate their time and efforts to perform such commendable acts.
“Through their outstanding skills, they successfully found and returned a missing 11-year-old girl, reuniting her safely with her family. I couldn’t be prouder of our team’s dedication to service and resolve to protect and serve,” HCSO stated in a Facebook post.
Mary Lou stands out as one of the most remarkable K9s in the office, and this occasion reaffirmed her exceptional sense of smell yet again.