The Calgary Police Service has announced the passing of one of its equine members due to complications from colic. The 10-year-old gelding, Ranger, died on Friday November 25th.

The following statement was issued on the Calgary Police Service Facebook page.

“It is with regret that we inform you of the passing of Police Service Horse, ‘Ranger’. Ranger had been assigned to active duty with our Mounted Unit and died on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016.

“On Friday, Ranger was transported to a veterinarian facility for a routine procedure, when an unforeseen and tragic life-threatening complication occurred as a result of colic. Unfortunately, the extremely difficult decision was made to euthanize Ranger as the most humane option.

“Ranger, a 10-year-old gelding, entered service with the Calgary Police Service five years ago and was partnered with Const. Reto Aeschlimann for the entire duration of his service. Ranger served his partner, his unit, the CPS, and the citizens of Calgary with honour and distinction until his sudden death. Over the many years and thousands of hours working together, a significant bond was built between both Ranger and Const. Aeschlimann.

“Ranger possessed a kind and gentle soul and enjoyed opportunities to meet the public. Citizens would often stop what they were doing for the opportunity to meet Ranger, who had a calming effect for those who met him. Ranger was invaluable to the CPS and had a tremendous will to please his rider through a phenomenal relationship of trust and respect.

“The death of Ranger is a significant loss to our Mounted Unit and entire Service.”