Queensland Police mourn the loss of a loyal dog who died on duty

Queensland Police say the handler of a loyal serving canine is devastated after the animal died while on duty this morning.

Queensland Police is mourning the loss of a loyal dog who died after helping his team track down a suspect burglar early this morning.

Police Dog Kaleb tracked down a man believed to have been involved in break and enter in Harristown in Toowoomba.

After he had completed another successful mission, the animal stumbled and collapsed while returning to the back of a police vehicle shortly before 3am.

His handler, Sergeant Trevor O’Neill, immediately performed first aid but Kaleb became unconscious.

The loyal pooch was rushed to a vet but he couldn’t be saved.

Sergeant O’Neill is devastated by the loss of his mate.

Police say Sergeant O’Neill is a very experienced officer and is “absolutely devastated” by the loss of his dog, partner and mate.

“In his five years he has been with the service, he (Kaleb) has been part of countless successful tracks and apprehensions,” Queensland Police said.

“All QPS dogs live at home with their handlers and are part of their family and the bond between handlers and their dogs makes them inseparable.”

The safety and wellbeing of all police dogs are treated very seriously, a statement from police said.

“When a police dog passes away as a result of an incident on duty or in training, the State Capability Coordinator (Dog Squad) conducts a review into the circumstances of the incident,” it said.

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