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.

"He slobbered me with kisses and ate things off the floor and made us all laugh," Babiarz said. "A few weeks ago, I was looking forward to seeing River at a study-break event, but his handler announced last-minute that River wasn’t feeling well and wouldn’t make it."  

Babiarz only realized the dog's illness was serious when the department announced River's surgery, but was still shocked to hear of his passing. 

Babiarz reflected on River being "such a good boy" and doing such an important job. 

"It’s just wild to see a three-year-old dog pass so suddenly," Babiarz said. "The hardest part is that I can imagine River was a perfect good boy all the way until his final moments."

Babiarz said River has now left an impact on the entire community.

"His sweet disposition never wavered," Babiarz said. "His job as a comfort dog wasn’t just work to him, it was his whole purpose, and I’m just devastated that East Lansing will have to live without him. I especially feel for his handler, Lieutenant Kim, who loved him so much and worked so hard to engage with the community."

With the community now faced with the obstacle of grieving the passing of a prominent member, Babiarz offered advice to those that need it.

"I'm sure everyone who knew River is equally as grief-stricken as I," Babiarz said. "Pet loss grief is super real, and is not a laughing matter. Grief, mourning, and healing is not a linear process, so it's normal to feel big feelings. I know there's a River-sized hole in my heart. Though River can't physically be in East Lansing to make us feel better, he's certainly doing his job in spirit."