GREENVILLE, S.C. -- One Greenville County sheriff’s deputy spoke out about the important role police dogs play in everyday law enforcement. This comes after deputies said a fleeing suspect stabbed a K-9 on Thursday.

Deputy Hal Harris works side-by-side with his four-legged partner, Cash, every day. Harris said in many cases they are the first at the scene of a crime.

“Throughout the night, throughout the shift, not only does my life, but other deputies’ lives really depend on Cash,” Harris said.

Harris said he knows how dangerous their jobs can be, but he said that’s the life they’ve decided to take on.

“We take calculated risks with our dog a lot of time,” Harris said.

Harris said Cash spends hundreds of hours training to be proficient with his movements and commands. He’s also trained to know when to attack, Harris said.

“We do 600 hours with these dogs before we’re allowed to even go out on the road,” Harris said.

Harris said each day the bond between the dog and his handler becomes stronger. He said Cash even goes home with him every night.