FAIRHOPE — Fairhope Police K-9 officer Bauer's retirement was formally recognized during a city council meeting last week, commemorating his eight years of service to the Fairhope Police Department

Bauer, age 8, was appointed in March 2017 and was retired from his duties in February. During his course as a police K-9, Bauer completed 3,180 hours of training, was deployed for 37 tracks and conducted 161 area searches, Police Chief Stephanie Hollinghead said during the city council meeting last Monday. Bauer was also involved in 124 felony arrests and 231 misdemeanor arrests and completed four SWAT deployments and three apprehensions.

During the meeting, Bauer's partner, Cpl. Andrew Babb, was given a plaque detailing Bauer's accomplishment throughout his career and was also given a framed pencil drawing of Bauer to commemorate his retirement. The drawing was made by Tommy Harris, who according to the department, met Babb and Bauer during a business trip last yearband drew Bauer during his spare time as a gift for his retirement.

Hollinghead said Bauer played a vital role in protecting the local community and demonstrated remarkable skill during his eight-year tenure with his partner, becoming a beloved presence within the department and leaving a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.

"As Bauer transitions from an active duty to a well-deserved life of rest, play and belly rubs, we know he leaves behind a legacy of service and sacrifice," Hollinghead said. "While he may be trading in the patrol car for a cozy spot on the couch, the impact he has made on our community and our department will never be forgotten."

Babb said Bauer will be living out his retirement with him at home, enjoying any table scraps that he can get his paws on.