Pima County Sheriff K9 Division and slain K9 Officer Kenzo to be honored as Grand Marshals of the 2025 Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade! The Friends of Pima Animal Care Center has designated K9 officer Kenzo and his Pima County Sheriff’s Office colleagues as Grand Marshal for the 2025 Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade. Kenzo was stabbed in the line of duty in October 2023 and ultimately passed away due to his injuries. Kenzo’s sacrifice received national recognition and was honored locally by the Sheriff’s Department, the media, and the community. Kenzo was post-humorously awarded the Medal of Valor by the Sheriff, the second highest honor in the department. The Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade, which takes place Sunday, March 2, highlights ways animals enrich our lives and community. Animals play an irreplaceable role in Pima County, both as domestic companions and working animals, such as law enforcement officers and service animals. Kenzo was nearly a 2-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department, and his work contributed to the safety and well-being of Pima County citizens. “K9 Kenzo was more than just a partner – he was family. His dedication, loyalty, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. As we honor him at the PACC Pet Parade, we remember the unwavering bond between our K9s and their handlers and the incredible service they provide to our community," stated Sheriff Chris Nanos. The Pets of Pima Parade also celebrates the important bonds between humans and animals. Kenzo was part of a team with his handler, Deputy Chris Rodriguez, and the entire Sheriff’s K9 program. As such, the entire K9 team will share the honor of Grand Marshal. “We’re honored to recognize the efforts of the Pima County Sheriff K9s and to commemorate Kenzo’s sacrifice. This serves as a solemn yet important reminder of the vital role animals play in our community and our lives,” said Torre Chisholm, Executive Director of Friends of PACC. In addition to honoring Kenzo as the Grand Marshal, there will be a Team Kenzo with a portion of the donations being used to purchase lifesaving vests for Pima Sheriff K9s. Visit the Team Kenzo page for additional details. |
Friends of PACC is proud to announce the pet marshals leading this year’s TEP Cat Convoy and Raising Cane’s Procesión de los Perros segments of the Parade! Representing the feline community is Mr. Rocket, a 3-year-old Flame Point cat with a playful spirit and a heart full of kindness. He has a special love for children and never leaves his human sister’s side, especially when her friends come over. On the canine side, Hank the Tank, a lively Pembroke Welsh Corgi, will take the lead. Whether he’s going for a walk, floating on his pool raft, or cruising in the car with the window down, Hank brings joy wherever he goes. Both Mr. Rocket and Hank the Tank were previously honored as Tucson Subaru’s Pets of the Year, earning them the distinguished role of parade marshals this year! |