For nearly two years, Nike has worked beside his deputy handler as a trusted member of the San Diego County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit, stepping into situations most people would instinctively avoid. But during an early morning burglary response in Escondido, the six-year-old Belgian Malinois suddenly became the one who needed saving. Nike was stabbed several times in the face while helping officers take an armed and uncooperative suspect into custody, leaving him with painful wounds that required immediate veterinary treatment.

The frightening encounter unfolded shortly before 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 5. The Escondido Police Department had requested assistance from a Sheriff’s K-9 Unit team during a burglary in progress at a business in the 100 block of South Orange Street.

Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Eric Rodriguez. According to sheriff’s officials, Rodriguez was wielding a large stick, throwing objects, and threatening officers at the scene. Police issued multiple K-9 warning commands, but Rodriguez allegedly refused to comply. With the situation remaining dangerous and officers attempting to make an arrest, Nike was deployed to assist.

Nike Was Rushed for Emergency Care

During the confrontation, Nike was stabbed several times in the face, according to authorities. Officers and sheriff’s deputies quickly restrained Rodriguez and took him into custody, allowing Nike’s handler to focus on getting his injured partner to safety.

Nike was immediately rushed to the Veterinary Specialty Hospital of North County in San Marcos. Veterinary staff discovered five lacerations across his face, along with two puncture wounds.

His injuries required about 10 stitches. After such a violent encounter, the sight of Nike wounded was undoubtedly difficult for those who work closely with him, especially his deputy handler, who rushed him to the hospital for the emergency care he needed. Fortunately, the news that followed offered some much-needed relief.

Nike was released from veterinary care early the following morning and returned home with his handler to continue healing. Sheriff’s officials described him as a tough dog with a passion for his work and said they were hopeful he would make a full recovery.

Nike has served as a Sheriff’s K-9 for nearly two years. Like other working police dogs, he works alongside his handler in situations that can become unpredictable and dangerous within moments. For now, however, his most important assignment is simply to rest and recover. After receiving emergency treatment and returning to his handler’s familiar presence, Nike can heal away from the chaos of the scene.

Sheriff’s officials expressed gratitude to the deputies and Escondido police officers who responded during the incident, as well as the veterinary team that provided Nike with emergency treatment.

Rodriguez was booked into the Vista Detention Facility. Authorities said the charges included suspicion of injuring a working dog, resisting arrest, second-degree burglary, and property vandalism.

What began as a dangerous overnight call ended with an injured K-9 being carried away for urgent medical attention. Thankfully, Nike survived the attack and made it back home, where the brave Belgian Malinois now has time to recover beside the handler who rushed to his aid.