Cass County K-9 Ryker recovering from injuries, back on the job soon

WALKER — Cass County K-9 Ryker continues his road to a full recovery after an assault by a suspect in September.

The sheriff's office provided an update on Ryker, who is receiving treatment at the Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota.

Ryker’s CT scan revealed a fractured snout and eye socket, broken teeth, and several cuts, has been receiving treatment and surgery on these injuries, and will return to work in the near future.

The 6-year-old German Shepherd has served with Deputy Ryan Huston in the Cass County Sheriff's Office for four years.

Former Cass County Investigator Mike Diekmann led a fundraising effort and numerous businesses and individuals donated to assist Ryker with ongoing recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

In a news release, the sheriff's office offered a heartfelt thank you to all of those who sent notes, cards, well wishes, and gifts during this time of recovery.

On Sept. 17, Ryker assisted in a search for an assault suspect in rural Cass Lake. The sheriff's office responded to the area after receiving a report of a man hitting people with an ax.

When the K-9 approached the 27-year-old Cass Lake man, the man swung a large metal pipe and struck Ryker twice in the head, according to authorities.

The man was taken into custody and Ryker was transported to an emergency veterinarian hospital in the Twin Cities.