Remembering K-9 Ash

January 8, 2026 by Rose Nemunaitis

Geauga County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Wilson first met his K-9 partner, Ash, a short-haired German shepherd from Slovakia, on May 8, 2024, at Excel K-9.

From that day forward, an immensely strong bond formed, built on a foundation of mutual trust, rigorous training and constant togetherness.

The new law enforcement duo began seven weeks of intensive training, learning from the outset to rely on one another through long, demanding days that laid the groundwork for their partnership.

“That time shaped us into a team and marked the start of a bond that would carry us through every call and every challenge,” Wilson said.

Ash was just one month shy of his fourth birthday when, on the evening of

Dec. 4 — Wilson’s birthday — he suffered a sudden medical emergency.

“We rushed him to the emergency veterinarian, hoping for answers and a way forward,” Wilson recalled. Doctors determined Ash’s intestines had twisted and despite every effort, nothing could be done to save him.

On Dec. 5, 2025, the heartbreaking decision was made to say goodbye.

“Losing Ash so suddenly has been devastating, not only for me as his handler, but for my wife and children who loved him as part of our family,” Wilson said.

Sgt. Jacob Smith, who leads the sheriff’s office’s K-9 unit, spoke about the unique bond between a handler and canine partner.

“A law enforcement canine is with their handler 24 hours a day,” Smith said. “They do not leave their side and want to be present for anything that goes on. Once he (Wilson) was paired with Ash, it was obvious that they would make a great team.”

Basic K-9 school is a demanding six- to 10-week program involving classroom instruction and physical training.

“You take a ‘green dog’ and train it how to find narcotics, explosives, people and items,” Smith said. “The dog must also be able to apprehend a suspect and obey all the commands that the handler provides. Deputy Wilson was able to train Ash to do all of these tasks and certify as a sheriff’s (K-9) team.”

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office maintains the only K-9 unit in the county and regularly assists agencies outside Geauga County — a role which Ash fulfilled during his service.

In addition to his law enforcement duties, Ash also served as a community ambassador.

“The dogs, as well as their handlers, have been great ambassadors for our office with adults, as well as the children,” Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand said. “The handlers and the dogs work very hard every day keeping the county and each other safe. Next year (2026) will be no different. Sgt. Smith does a great job as the leader of the teams and it shows.”

The sheriff’s office plans to obtain another canine for Wilson as training classes typically begin in the spring.

Hildenbrand expressed gratitude to county residents and businesses.

“The great citizens and businesses of Geauga County — due to their donations, we are normally able to keep our (K-9) unit up to full staff and always available,” he said.

Following basic training, the K-9 unit meets weekly to complete required training hours.

“Deputy Wilson went above these hours and trained Ash during his patrol hours and at home,” Smith said. “Due to this, Ash was well-prepared to handle any situation that he was called upon. Deputy Wilson and Ash were well liked at schools and community demonstrations. Ash was a very well-mannered and friendly deputy.”

For Wilson, Ash was more than a co-worker. He was his partner and a cherished member of the family.

“For a year and a half, Ash and I worked side by side, building a bond rooted in trust, loyalty and commitment,” Wilson said. “In that short time, he became irreplaceable to me, my wife and our children.”

When the vest came off, Ash was a family dog — gentle, protective and deeply loved — bringing comfort, laughter and a sense of safety into their home.

Wilson described Ash as focused, driven and proud of his work.

“He loved his job,” Wilson said. “Watching him run a track completely locked in and determined was a reminder of his dedication and the trust I placed in him. He gave everything he had every time he worked. His absence has left a silence that is felt by all of us.”

Smith said one of the hardest moments for any handler is having to say goodbye.

“Unfortunately, that day came unannounced and unexpected to Deputy Wilson,” Smith said.

Ash will be deeply missed by the sheriff’s office and K-9 unit.

“Ash served with honor, lived with purpose and loved without limits,” Wilson said. “Though his life was far too short, his impact will be felt forever. Rest easy, Ash. Your watch is over, but you will never be forgotten.”