​The dogs, Flynn and Kubla Khani, were adopted by two handlers in the K9 unit – Constables Sharone Larry and Constable Clinton Adams - so they’ll remain part of the K9 family.

‘This is a sad and exciting day for the unit. Our K9 officers are as much a part of the unit as their human colleagues and become like family. More than their work within the unit, the dogs boost morale and help reduce stress,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

Both dogs were born in 2011, and were acquired by the Metro Police Department in 2013.

K9 Flynn was trained to protect, but also to detect explosives.

Kubla Khani picked up an injury during training, which meant that she could not pursue active duty, but she remained part of the team.

The Metro Police K9 unit currently has 20 active K9s which are all fully operational.

‘We wish our two retirees well, with many happy walks and barking good times,’ added Alderman Smith.

Metro Police Chief Wayne le Roux took Flynn out for a last run, before both dogs received their certificates and medals.