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This little 3-footed alligator, who made children smile, has passed away

Posted at 11:41 AM, May 18, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-18 11:41:34-04

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. — Hook was the name of the little alligator the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office used to connect with children in the community. Hook passed away this week, according to a sheriff’s office Facebook post.

“Hook’s start was not an easy one, he was illegally owned and was housed with a snapping turtle,” the post read. “The snapping turtle bit Hook’s foot off at a young age. He was not well cared for and was eventually given to us where he received his own habitat and plenty of fish and mice.”

The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office used Hook as an “educational tool.”

“Children from all over the community would come to events just to hang out with Hook,” the post continued. “This little alligator made children from difficult family situations smile, he helped others overcome unnecessary fear of reptiles. He was also used in the Animal Control academy as an introduction to exotics for Officers. For a little gator he had a big presence. Hook you will be missed!”

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