Novice K9 Handler Skips Her Dog's Funeral For Cosmetics Appointment, Now Puzzled By Instructor's Anger

"I haven't done something wrong, this dog belongs to the work not me "

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• July 23, 2023

Beginning a new job can often feel like being tossed into the deep end. The climb from the bottom to where you want to be can be steep and full of surprises.

But sometimes, certain individuals yearn to bypass the learning curve, desiring to arrive at their dream role despite being less experienced or knowledgeable. This could cause discord, as it did for our protagonist.

Our heroine (26f) found herself in the midst of such a dilemma during her tenure at a K9 department. She aspired to specialize in either explosives or narcotics detection when she started six months prior.

But, due to a lack of available positions, she was placed in cadaver detection, partnered with an eight-year-old Belgian Malinois. This pup, despite his years, had an unruly temperament, always causing a ruckus and running away with his ball after training sessions.

The dog was diagnosed with a terminal condition after six months and, unfortunately, had to be put to sleep. Despite being the current handler, OP didn't attend his farewell ceremony or funeral.

Why? Because these events weren't part of her duties, she had a Hydra facial appointment at a clinic. This led to a terse phone call with her instructor, who was unhappy about OP's absence at the dog's farewell.

When OP pointed out there was no legal obligation to attend, the instructor threatened to report her. OP's retort was simple - go ahead. The dog had been with her for only six months, and she didn't know much about his history at the department.

She did have concerns about her job, though. She watched her explosive section colleagues visiting VIP locations while narcotics handlers went on challenging missions with high accolades.

She, however, was stuck working with a team of grumpy seniors, searching for corpses during freezing nights and ending up dirty after every mission.

OP is working six months at the K9 department, placed in cadaver detection with an unruly Belgian Malinois, and struggles to control him

Dog was diagnosed terminal condition, euthanized. OP missed the ceremony, had clinic appointment. The instructor was angry, reported OP and an argument ensued.

OP has unfair treatment and unnecessary guilt over a dog's funeral.

Because of burnout and frustration in current job, OP seeks a transfer to the K9 unit and plans to request a transfer to K9 bomb sniffing section in the future.

OP's career fate is up to her

Sounds like OP hate her job

OP has lack of commitment to the job and team

OP should show dedication to her fellow officers and their service

Dog is also a partner

OP should find a different job and not work with dogs

OP is criticized for not attending the event after working with the dog for 6 months

OP's actions are seen as disrespectful and may affect future career prospects

It's super essential for OP to keep talking openly with her bosses about how she feels, what she wants to achieve, and any issues that bug her. She should stand up for herself and find a workplace where they appreciate her skills and talents.

OP's mental well-being and job satisfaction matter a lot, and if things don't get better, she shouldn't be afraid to check out other opportunities.

Damjan