K9 Aro was born in the Netherlands in March of 2013 and bought by the U.S Border Patrol in November of 2014. As he began his detection training for concealed humans and the odor of controlled substances, he was partnered with Border Patrol Agent, Kenneth Chavez. Soon after, they became certified as a team and traveled to their assigned station in Alpine, Texas. While there, K-9 Aro and BPA Chavez were responsible for over 100 seizures that ranged from personal use to a couple hundred pounds of different types of drugs. In 2016, K9 Aro and BPA Chavez were transferred to El Centro, California for the rest of his career.
Until his retirement, K9 Aro was responsible for the apprehension of over 2,000 subjects in the field and multiple methamphetamine and cocaine in El Centro Border Patrol Sector. Aro was awarded Top Dog for the most Concealed Humans Apprehensions in El Centro sector for fiscal years 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
Unfortunately, K9 Aro has dealt with Renal Kidney disease, necessitating a lifelong prescription diet. After exhibiting signs of gastric torsion, he was rushed to the veterinary hospital where a ruptured mass was discovered. As a result, an emergency splenectomy was performed. Due to his health issues and age, he was retired from Border Patrol and was entrusted under the full care of BPA Chavez.
Following the uncertainty and unexpectedness of K9 Aro’s surgery, BPA Kennet Chavez wrote, “This was a very unexpected event and emotions were everywhere. I thank you for being the calm through this storm. My family and I were able to get past this scary time because of your organization. I now have 2 happy little girls happy to have their brother back home with them. Aro is a big part of our family. He brings us so much joy, laughter, and love. Having more time with Aro is the best Christmas present we can all ask for. Paws of Honor did that for us. We will forever be thankful to you all and will never forget what you all have done for our family.”
Above all else, K9 Aro loves and is loved by the entire Chavez family and anyone he encounters. When Aro joined the family following his retirement, he quickly became an integral part of the family unit. He is wholeheartedly cherished and especially adored by his two human sisters!
There are retired military and law enforcement K9’s nationwide just like K9 Aro. The goal of Paws of Honor is to provide veterinary care and products at no charge for these dogs that have served throughout the world. The monetary burden associated with veterinary care should not fall on the shoulders of the officer/handler/owner once the K9 has been decommissioned. They deserve accessible, high quality veterinary care in return for their sacrifice.
Your contribution today could help save the life of a retired K9 that once served our communities and country. Thank you for your support and patronage!
