What set Candy apart was the extraordinary bond she shared with her handler, Master Deputy II Anthony “Tony” Natalzia. Natalzia fondly recalled, “She went everywhere with me. You see these dogs more than you see your family.”
However, as of late, Natalzia noticed a decline in the 11-year-old dog’s health. Candy developed a noticeable limp and lost her appetite. Concerned, Natalzia took her to the veterinarian, where a grim diagnosis was delivered—Candy had cancer that had metastasized throughout her body. Natalzia lamented, “It was in her lungs, it was everywhere. The vet said there was nothing they could do, and I couldn’t even comprehend it—we had only gone for a routine visit.”
A Heartfelt Farewell
With the terminal cancer advancing, Natalzia knew that the most humane decision was to take Candy to the vet to be euthanized. But before saying their final goodbyes, Candy was given the opportunity to bid farewell to her police colleagues.
On a poignant Monday, officers organized a ceremonial farewell walkout for Candy. The hallways of the Virginia Beach Correctional Center were filled with officers who saluted the retiring K9 as she left work for the last time. The emotions were palpable as many of the officers bid their tearful farewells.
Candy clutched her beloved tennis ball throughout the entire procession. Following the touching walkout, Natalzia drove Candy to the veterinarian, where she peacefully passed away.
