Retirement of Police Service Dog

After an illustrious eight-year career with Halifax Regional Police (HRP), police service dog Steeler has officially retired from the K-9 Unit.

Steeler, a German Shepherd originally from Jessen, Germany, came to HRP in 2010 when he was 10-months-old. Throughout his career Steeler served alongside his partner, Cst. Phil MacDonald, as a general service dog with a speciality profile in explosive detection.

Since December 2017, Steeler has been semi-retired working exclusively as an explosive detection dog while Cst. MacDonald’s new police service dog Morgan completed his police training. After years of dedicated service, Steeler will continue to live with Cst. MacDonald and police service dog Morgan in his retirement.

Steeler has had many memorable moments as a member of the K-9 Unit:

• Formally sworn-in and received his constable badge
• Tracked and apprehended more than 200 criminals
• Secured and screened large venues for concerts, sporting events and VIP visits to Halifax including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President George W. Bush and members of the Royal Family
• Entertained thousands of guests at the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo during his four-year tenure as a performer
• Conducted school visits and demonstrations to promote a positive relationship between the police and community

“The K-9 Unit’s police service dogs have gone through extensive training and are an integral part of our police service,” said Chief Blais. “Steeler and his handler, Cst. Phil MacDonald, have shown great dedication, commitment and teamwork while serving our community. We wish Steeler well in his retirement!”

Canines and police partners from around the world will be visiting Halifax May 27-30 for the 2019 Canadian Police Canine Association (CPCA) handler development seminar. This is the first time Halifax will host the national seminar, which helps police canine teams enhance their skills. For more information: https://canadianpolicecanine.com/events/upcoming_events.

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Source : Media Release