More than 25 years of dedication to public service has led to regional recognition for Capt. Dan Othic, a longtime officer with the University of Central Missouri’s Department of Public Safety. He was recently honored as recipient of the Clarence M. Kelley Meritorious Service Award.
While his departure may not have come with farewell speeches and a celebration, an important member of the University of Central Missouri Department of Public Safety has officially retired.
Echo, a male German Shepherd who has been a part of the Canine (K-9) Unit for approximately eight years, was retired from Public Safety due to health reasons.
Captain Dan Othic said the decision to change Echo’s status with the department was related to a condition called degenerative myelopathy, also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM). While the cause is unknown, the disease often occurs in large breed dogs. It affects the spinal cord and results in slowing progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis, according to an article written by veterinarians Dr. Tammy Hunter and R. Ernest Ward, in vcahospitals.com.