Kyo Franklin (RET U.S. Navy Seals K-9)

Kyo, retired United States Navy Seals K-9, passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2018 following a period of declining health.  Born in Maui, Hawaii on February 14, 2005, Kyo arrived at Amph Expeditionary Navy Special Warfare Base in Coronado, California at 12 weeks old. Kyo went through initial canine bomb training and proving himself to be such an intelligent and faster learner that he became one of the first ever multi-tasking dogs specializing in bombs, firearms and bio chemicals.  He had a natural and calming demeanor making him an excellent candidate for general protection detail.  Kyo served with the United States Navy Seals in Afghanistan and Iraq with a total of 6 tours between 2006 and 2010. His owner, Chris Franklin, felt connected with Kyo from the moment he met him at 12 weeks, visiting him during training, serving side by side with him on operations overseas, becoming his official owner when Kyo had to retire from the military after he had contracted parasitic lung disease that he contracted in the desert. Having been a total ladies man and stealing the hearts of women everywhere and anyone he came in contact with, even with his declining health, Kyo had a lion’s heart and was loving, playful and loyal companion.  Kyo will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.  Chris would like to thank Beacon Veterinary Hospital in Swannanoa for their assistance with Kyo’s departure and the staff of Companion Petuary/Beam Funeral Service & Crematory for assisting in the cremation of Kyo’s remains.  Both went above and beyond to show respect to Kyo for his Veteran Service and were compassionate, professional and courteous to Mr. Franklin during this extremely difficult time.