RUSK, Texas (KLTV) - Tests show a Cherokee County K9 died from a parasitic disease called Chagas disease.

Zable, a 1 1/2-year-old Dutch shepherd had been with the sheriff’s office about two months when he died. He came from Hill County Dog Center, where he was purchased using drug seizure funds.

After working his shift on July 21, Zable and his handler had returned home. Zable had a medical emergency while walking from the patrol unit to his pen and was taken to a vet in Tyler where he died.

A necropsy revealed the cause of death. Chagas disease is caused by a protozoal parasite that young dogs seem to be more susceptible. Some die without showing any symptoms, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.

The sheriff’s office was reimbursed for the cost of Zable and his trai

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