Drug sniffer dogs go into retirement after eight years serving and protecting Tasmania
Three of Tassies top police dogs are hanging up their leashes and handing in their collars after eight years in the ranks. SEE THE PICTURES >
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Police dogs Aggie, Una and Bernie are hanging up their leashes and handing in their collars after serving eight years in the force across Tasmania.
Despite their departure from the ranks, Tasmanian Police assistant commissioner Rob Blackwood said the three top dogs had made a significant contribution to the safety of the state while working in drug detection.
“They’ve been a part of 2800 searches conducted by warrant and many thousand others, non warranted random searches,” he said.
“They’ve been a part of seizures of drugs in excess of $45m worth so you can really see the significant difference they’ve made.
“There are many proud moments but most recently they were involved in our most significant drug seizure involving ice and cocaine that was detected at Hobart Airport, it was over $5.5m worth of drugs that these dogs were a part of finding.”
While it was a tough and rewarding eight years working in the force, Mr Blackwood hopes the three labradors will spend the rest of their years relaxing.
“I’m hoping they have bones, donuts, anything a police dog would like,” he said.
Mr Blackwood acknowledged the massive commitment it took for the handlers to look after the dogs.
“It’s not something that you do nine to five and leave the dog at work,” he said.
“They come home with you and are really part of your life and it’s important to recognise the dogs but also our staff who have worked so hard with them.
“Some of the handlers are retaining the dogs as well and will live with them in their retirement as well and give them that life that they deserve.”
Tasmanian Police inspector Kathy Bennett said the dogs have enjoyed working throughout their career.
“They’re trained from puppies to do this role,” she said.
“They are exceptionally well looked after. They have amazing care in being fed properly, their vet care is the highest quality.
“I’ve had the opportunity to see them grow and develop and also see the amazing work that they do and how hard they actually work in conjunction with their handlers for Tasmania.”
While the three dogs go into retirement, three puppies are currently being trained in a nine-week program and will serve in their place.
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