Ah yes, the ball. Fewer things hold a higher place of honor among dogs. For many, chasing a ball is a great way to pass the time. For a select few, ball chasing becomes something more than merely a way to play. It’s a cold fetish. An all-consuming obsession. “Please, gimme’ the ball, ball, ball, ball, BALL!”

Dogs like that should consider a future in law enforcement, since “ball drive” is the primary ability a dog needs to become a drug sniffer. Here’s one of Best Friends’ shining examples. Cedar’s (Pictured right with Sharita) world revolves around chasing balls. No day is gloomy so long as a ball is involved. When Sharita Odom came to Best Friends to find a possible police dog, Cedar rose above the crowd.

Her husband, Officer Darwin Odom, trained Cedar himself. Darwin had originally intended to train Cedar for another officer but when Cedar turned out as good as he did, Darwin just had to keep him for himself.

Just how talented a drug sniffer is Cedar? During his recent certification test, he was given nine minutes to find three different drugs – marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine – in three different rooms. Cedar found all three of them in three minutes flat! That’s six minutes faster than necessary. And after only three weeks on the job, he’s already made six drug busts.

Officer Darwin (Pictured left with Cedar) is thrilled to have such a superior drug sniffer as part of the family. (Cedar sleeps in the bedroom and everything.) A happy ending indeed for such a talented guy. Way to go Cedar!

Sharita came to Best Friends and found Cedar through the Hurricane Katrina Training Partners Program. To learn more about the program, please click here to visit the Best Friends Network website.

Written by David Dickson. Photos by Troy Snow. Embedded photos by Cedar's family.

July 27, 2006 : 6:45 PM ET
posted by: sweetface

What kind of breed is Cedar? He does not strike me as a particular breed. Proves all the more that Mutts have all it takes!

July 27, 2006 : 11:43 AM ET
posted by: dogmom

Officer Cedar looks great in his harness with his badge. Best of luck to all!!!

July 26, 2006 : 9:29 PM ET
posted by: pawsitive

I have received a gracious email from Sharitta Odom in reference to a bullet proof vest for Cedar. Sharitta said that Cedar does not require a vest as he is only used in a controlled environment. And yes they are in Texas, so it would be much too hot for him to be under that cover. It is assuring to know he is not in harm's way as some enforcement dogs can be. Thanks to those so willing to contribute.

July 26, 2006 : 5:53 PM ET
posted by: klarocca

If my eyes don't deceive me, on the door of the police car appears to be the Great Seal of the State of Texas and "Lampasas"...Looks like the Odoms might be in Lampasas, Texas. That would mean that the Great State of Texas is privileged to have yet another fine police dog working with our great officers here. If so--an official Howdy! and Welcome! to Texas, Office Cedar--keep bustin' those drug dealers!

I'm in for raising funds for body armor for Officer Cedar--just let me know when and where to deposit the funds.

austindoggiemom Austin, Texas

July 26, 2006 : 4:47 PM ET
posted by: mcmars

A purpose driven life... everyone needs it. I'm so glad Cedar was given the opportunity to find his. Great job to all!

July 26, 2006 : 12:52 PM ET
posted by: cattees

Way to go Cedar! See, practicing the art of "Zen Doggie" paid off! For those who are unfamiliar with this art, it's premise is simple: Ball is Life / Life is Ball. I had a German Shepherd who was a master at this.

July 26, 2006 : 12:43 PM ET
posted by: BECKER

OHH LOOK AT HIM SO PROUD AND HAPPY. HE'S BEAMING THROUGHT THE SCREEN. GOD BLESS HIS HEART AND THOSE WHO CARED ENOUGH TO GIVE HIM A CHANCE. GOOD LUCK SWEETIE.

MARY & BECKER

July 26, 2006 : 12:36 PM ET
posted by: Ryan Root

This is great news! I've trained a search & rescue dog (avalanche & wilderness area...soon to add drowning recovery & wilderness trailing) to a dog whose high drive wore out his welcome at his previous home. Since my wife & I have been volunteering at Best Friends, I'd always thought about getting my next one there.

Cedar's story is so encouraging! Perhaps Best Friends could (if they don't already) identify potential candidates & publicize them to volunteer & law enfocement agencies--just a thought.

Keep up the great work, Cedar, and nice job Officer Darwin!

Ryan

July 26, 2006 : 11:42 AM ET
posted by: cathy corbin

This is a great story - way to go, Officer Cedar - I salute you! Obviously, you are an outstanding officer, and the love of your mom and dad's life. You go, Cedar!

July 26, 2006 : 11:36 AM ET
posted by: pawsitive

Great job, Officer Cedar! He is obviously loving every minute of what he is doing. A wonderful home and a job...thanks to the Odoms! Does Cedar need a bullet-proof vest or does the department provide one? If not, perhaps a fundraiser is in order to keep this pup safe! I'll get the BALL rolling if someone will let me know. chloejoy@aol.com

July 26, 2006 : 11:34 AM ET
posted by: mare1992

I just love reading stories like this one. Way to go Cedar!! I hope he has a long happy life doing this great job of sniffing out drugs. We need more dogs like him out there taking care of this problem. I have an Aussie that would be great at it too but I would NEVER give her up. She would play ball all day if I had the time to do so and when she gives you the ball if you don't throw it right away she will bark her head off until you do. Please tell us more stories like this in the future. I would love to read them.

Mary Ann