Tolland State Police mourn the death of a police dog due to medical complications

TOLLAND, CT (WFSB) – State Police in Tolland announced Friday the death of a police dog due to medical complications.

Police said police dog Drago died on Thursday.

He suffered from gastric volvulus, or “bloat,” in which the stomach twists.

Drago was first diagnosed with the disease in January 2023. State police said at the time that veterinarians were able to successfully treat the disease.

Drago was assigned to Trooper First Class Kyle Kaelberer in Tolland.

Over the course of his career, Drago has tracked down countless wanted suspects and missing persons, as well as a large quantity of drugs.

Some of his cases were:

“Wherever K9 Drago and TFC Kaelberer went, his barking gave suspects pause,” state police said. “But the floppy-eared dog was also known by citizens as a beloved member of the Tolland County community, and by all at the Troop C barracks, he was known for his warm disposition and for being a tough and excellent law enforcement representative.”

The police said they stood behind Kaelberer and his family during this difficult time.

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