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‘I am devastated’: Fenway Park groundskeeper mourning loss of beloved service dog

By Frank O'Laughlin, Boston 25 News Staff

Boston Red Sox pitcher Rick Porcello, left, plays with his 4-month-old puppy, Bronco, whose father is service dog, Drago, owned by head groundskeeper Dave Mellor, right, during a baseball work out at Fenway Park, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2018, in Boston. The Boston Red Sox are preparing for Game 1 of the baseball World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers scheduled for Tuesday in Boston. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

By Frank O'Laughlin, Boston 25 News Staff

BOSTON — The longtime head groundskeeper at Fenway Park is mourning the loss of his beloved service dog who spent countless hours standing watch as crews worked to make the field pristine for each Red Sox gameday.

“I am devastated to share the passing of my best friend, service dog & partner, Drago,” David Mellor wrote in an Instagram post. “Drago lived ten beautiful, impactful years.”

Mellor noted that Drago suffered a stroke. Drago’s son, Keeper, will feel his role as service dog upon completion of training.

“Drago was enjoying sunshine, Fenway & his time with me until the last moments before his stroke,” Mellor wrote. “Drago meant so much to so many people and his passing will be felt by many.”

Drago was featured in the ESPN piece, “Dave and Drago,” which brought awareness to service dogs. The production won an Edward R. Murrow award.

To honor Drago’s life, Mellor asked pet owners to give extra love and attention to their dogs. He is also asking for donations to Angell Medical Center or the Home Base Program.

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