The MSU Department of Police and Public Safety is mourning the loss of one of its Spartans. River, the canine therapy dog for the department, died Monday after a brief battle of hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive form of terminal cancer.
“For those who have had the pleasure of meeting River, you know just how he touched the lives of so many Spartans,” the department stated in a social media post. “With his gentle demeanor and wagging tail, River had become a beacon of comfort and joy for students, faculty, and staff.”
River had undergone surgery on Dec. 10, his third birthday, to have a tumor and affected muscles removed after receiving an preliminary exam from the MSU Small Animal Clinic.
Nadia Vizueta, spokesperson for MSU DPPS, said River’s passing has “deeply affected” the department and those who knew him.
“River wasn’t just a member of this team, he really was a family member,” Vizueta said. “When he became ill, we were obviously hoping for a better outcome, but we know that he’s at peace and we’re just hoping that his memory really shines throughout and people realize the impact he had.”
River spent his time at MSU not only protecting and serving the community, but also offering support to those that needed it. The social media post credited River’s greatness to his dedicated handler, Lt. Kim Parviainen.
“Lt. Kim, your commitment and love shined through River, and we are incredibly grateful,” the post said. “River’s ability to connect with so many people is a testament to Kim’s hard work and the nurturing environment she provided for him.”
Vizueta said the department encourages the community to remember the joy and comfort River brought with his presence.
“We just hope that his memory lives on in our hearts and continues to bring us joy because we know that is what River would have wanted,” Vizueta said. “He was such a good boy and I think he thrived and loved his job so much and part of that was bringing happiness and joy to everyone.”
Zoology and pre-vet sophomore Maggie Babiarz spoke about the personal impact River had on her, saying she first met him at a Lyman-Briggs relaxation event.
