Loyal, hard working and loved fetch: An ode to Police Dog Arkie

Police dog Arkie has been remembered as hard working and will be dearly missed by the police community, especially his handler.

Arkie chilling out on the grass.

Arkie, a dog who dedicated his life to protecting and serving alongside police has passed away, he was to be formally recognised with an award just before COVID-19 restrictions postponed them.

The German Shepherd based in Maryborough was sworn into the force on July 7, 2013 and passed away from unforeseen health circumstances on Sunday April 26.

Senior Constable Dellow and Arkie as a little puppy.

His handler, Senior Constable Brendon Dellow, said Arkie was “hard working, street wise with a very, very strong work ethic.”

“He just loved being with my family and I and relaxing out on the veranda,” Senior Constable Dellow said.

“Nothing seemed to phase him and you knew whatever situation you might find yourself in, he would be with you by your side.”

Arkie loved the 6am fetch sessions they would have together, as did Senior Constable Dellow.

Arkie was special, he was involved in countless successful operations but helping catch an armed offender was his most memorable.

Arkie and his pal having a laugh.

“One of his most memorable jobs include tracking and locating an armed offender which resulted in a four-hour stand-off with police,” a police statement said.

“After two failed taser deployments, the armed offender ran 30 metres from the scene and was apprehended by PD Arkie and another police dog.

“Both dogs held the violent offender until their respective handlers could get there.”

The braveness shown lead to Arkie being awarded with an Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate, but the presentation was postponed due to COVID-19.

He passed away before he could be formally acknowledged.

Senior Constable Dellow and Arkie earlier in their careers.

“I have read all of the messages posted about Arkie and I am appreciative of and humbled by everyone’s outpouring of support, thank you,” Senior Constable Dellow said.

The statement from police made a final ode to Arkie,

“PD Arkie, you will never be forgotten, and we send all of our love to Senior Constable Dellow and his family at this time.”

“The Queensland Police Service takes the safety and wellbeing of all police dogs very seriously and treats them as valued members of the police family.”

“PD Arkie, with honour you served, and it was our honour to serve with you.”