Batang Kali hero Blake of K9 dies

SHAH ALAM – The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has revealed that heroic canine detector ‘Blake’ was euthanized yesterday (Sept 18) at 4.38pm after a valiant battle with lymphoma cancer.

Blake, a remarkable English Springer Spaniel hailing from the United Kingdom, had been a proud member of the Fire and Rescue Department since 2017.

The brave dog had played pivotal roles in various high-stakes operations conducted by JBPM across the nation.

“Notable achievements include the discovery of drowning victims at Tol Batu 13, Lorong 16, Kampung Kenangan, Selangor, as well as the water search and rescue (SAR) missions near Yan, Kedah, and the location of trapped victims in Kampung Temelong, Karak, Pahang,” the department said in a statement released today through the Local Government Development Ministry (KPKT)’s official Facebook.

Prior to this, Blake's own health took a devastating turn on Aug 15, when he was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma.

Despite being admitted to the Beloved Pet Canine Ward at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), on Sept 14 in an attempt to combat the illness, Blake's condition deteriorated rapidly.

However, the lymphoma proved to be relentless, spreading aggressively throughout Blake's body.

“After careful deliberation with Veterinary Specialist Dr Nur Alimah Rahman, JBPM made the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize Blake.

“This decision was made out of compassion to prevent further suffering and pain for the loyal canine, given the grim prognosis and the absence of hope for recovery,” it said in a statement.

The heroic canine's unwavering dedication and significant contributions to countless rescue missions have left an indelible mark and the entire nation joins in mourning the passing of this courageous and beloved member of the JBPM family.