For seven years he has patrolled the streets of Bryan, Texas, sniffing out crime. Now, Officer Rudi is hanging up his leash for a more relaxing routine. The department bid farewell Wednesday to the highly-decorated Bryan Police canine who’s been with the force since 2002.

The 10½ year old Belgian Malinois will remain under the care of his partner and handler Sergeant Dean Swartzlander. “I have had him longer than I’ve had my oldest child, so it’s like retiring one my kids,” Swartzlander said. A retirement ceremony was held for Rudi Wednesday afternoon at the Criminal Justice Center.

Happy retirement Rudi— you’ve most certainly earned it!