Golden Retriever Police Dog Tracks Down Missing Man, Earns a Happy Meal

A Massachusetts police dog is being celebrated for his lifesaving work after tracking down a missing 78-year-old dementia patient. The dog, a Golden Retriever named Cruiser, didn’t just bring relief to the man’s family—he also stole hearts with the wide grin he flashed after the successful rescue.

Original video via YouTube

Wrentham Police reported that Cruiser was called in last Thursday after the elderly man wandered away from his Avon home. Despite a large search already underway, Cruiser wasted no time and went straight to the man’s location in the woods behind a school. “Cruiser can’t hide his smile today,” Police Chief Bill McGrath wrote in a Facebook post, commending the dog for once again proving his worth to the community.

As a reward, Cruiser’s handler, Sgt. Dan Morris, treated him to his favorite post-mission tradition—a McDonald’s Happy Meal. Photos shared by the department show the proud pup beaming as he enjoyed his burger, a well-earned celebration for a job well done.

Cruiser’s journey with the Wrentham Police Department began in 2020 when he joined as a puppy, thanks to a grant from the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office. Local elementary students chose his name, and he received his training through Golden Opportunities for Independence in Walpole, an organization that specializes in service-trained Golden Retrievers.

Original video via YouTube

Since then, Cruiser has become much more than just a police dog. He’s a community ambassador, attending public events, comforting children, and brightening the days of residents who meet him. But when it comes to search and rescue, Cruiser has shown time and again that he’s a true professional.

This isn’t his first heroic mission. Earlier this year, he was credited with finding two runaway children in the woods, earning himself another celebratory burger. Last summer, he also tracked down a missing elderly woman in Foxboro, once again demonstrating his training and determination.

Original video via YouTube

The latest rescue highlighted just how invaluable police dogs can be, particularly in time-sensitive emergencies. Community members flooded the department’s social media with praise, thanking both Cruiser and Sgt. Morris for their dedication. For the missing man’s family, the relief of having their loved one found safe was immeasurable.

Still, what may stick with people most is Cruiser’s unmistakable smile as he enjoyed his Happy Meal. It was a reminder that while his work is serious, the joy he brings to his community—and the pride he takes in his role—make him a true hometown hero.