New Zealand police farewell four-legged hero
A beloved member of the New Zealand Police Force has been farewelled, after Dunedin police dog Gill died from cancer.
The 10-year-old was the oldest police dog working in Dunedin’s police dog section when he passed away.
Senior Constable Tim Roy, who fostered Gill as a pup, worked with the German Shepherd for most of his operational years, according to a press release.
“He’s been an amazing dog right up until the end," Roy said.
"Gill was everything I could have asked for and more as a handler. He was big, strong, fearless, super driven, loved to work and known for his deafening excited howl when being deployed.
“Gill was more than an outstanding police dog. His goofy personality, playfulness and loyalty were what made him extra special.”
Sergeant Mike Calvert, head of the Dunedin Dog Section, described the canine as a strong all-round police dog with numerous successful tracks and catches.
“He also thrived as an AOS-qualified dog, and as recently as last month was taking part in AOS callouts and training days,” Calvert said.
“Old age hadn’t slowed him up and he kept his place on AOS leaving Tim’s younger dog Leo, aged 3, to pick up the active running around for general patrol dog work.”
Senior Constable Reuben Whalley, who worked with Gill in Christchurch, described him as “a lovely dog” who could switch off from work and enjoy family life at home.
Gill, who’s policing career began back in 2013, has done more than catch criminals and find people, having fathered a litter of puppies in 2016 and featured on the 2017 and 2023 Police Dog Trust Calendars.
“Gill just loved to please his handler, whether responding to jobs or taking part in the softer side of community policing, including community events and Christmas parades," Calvert said.
"It’s a shame he didn’t get to enjoy retirement."
Images: New Zealand Police