NEW YORK-Four police dogs killed in the line of duty are being recognized with a new award from the American Kennel Club.
The New York-based organization announced the first "AKC Paw of Courage" medal winners Monday.
Ogar, a Belgian Malinois (MAL'-ihn-wah) that worked with the Smith County Constables' office in Texas, was shot and killed by a suspect. So was Krijger (KREE'-guhr), a Malinois with the Norfolk Police Department in Virginia.
A third Malinois, Jag, was hit by a car during a training and certification session. He worked with California's Twin Rivers Unified School District Police Department.
Betcha, an Australian cattle dog, worked with the Rutland County Sheriff's Office in Vermont. Betcha died after running in front of his handler's patrol car.
Purebred and mixed-breed dogs are eligible for the award.
Four police dogs killed in the line of duty are lauded with new award
May 23, 2016 at 11:41 p.m. | Updated May 24, 2016 at 4:40 a.m.
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