By Nicholas Brown
Staff Writer

Retiring after eight years in the workforce may seem like an impossible dream come true. But for Zeus, a German shepherd who's been the eyes, ears and nose leading the Epsom police canine unit for all those years, retirement has not been readily welcomed.

Nine-year-old Epsom resident Kasey Hamlett, front, asks Epsom Police Chief Wayne Preve about his German shepherd, Zeus, who is recently retired after working eight years with the town's police department. (Nicholas Brown Photo)

"All Zeus cares about is working," said Epsom Police Chief Wayne Preve. "But it's time for the old guy. He's done his job - done a good job - and it's time to relax."

Preve became a full-time officer with the department in 2000. A year later, he became the canine officer, inheriting Zeus from former Epsom Police Chief Henry Farrin.

The two were then partners, with Zeus living in Preve's family home, and riding along in Preve's specially equipped canine cruiser. For four years, the two worked together.

"He's like your friend," said Preve. "He's your partner, and I know he'd watch my back."

Recently, however, Zeus. arthritis and general joint soreness have reduced his ability perform, leading to his retirement.

"The hardest thing is not being adding that when he puts on his uniform, or if the phone rings in the middle of the night, Zeus still breaks into excited whining. "Until that dog passes away, he'll be ready to work."

Preve said Zeus has often been the envy of neighboring towns. police departments, most of which do not employ canine units.

Zeus is skilled at finding missing persons, apprehending people fleeing or hiding from a crime scene, and is also drug certified.

Preve said Zeus is not the most talented dog he's seen, but the canine's above-average skill across all facets of the job, combined with his work ethic, will be sorely missed by the department.

Riggs, another German shepherd, being handled by Sgt. Brian Michael, will be Zeus. replacement. Preve said Zeus may still be used occasionally for drug searches.

"He used to be real fast," said Preve. "Now he still gets there - it just takes him a little while."

Zeus will likely spend much of his retirement playing fetch, his favorite casual game.

"Anything we throw is what he enjoys at home," said Preve.