One of New Zealand Police’s favourite, fearless – and most photogenic – police dogs has retired from the police service.
The near 8-year-old German Shepherd patrol dog, Dakota took off her operational vest for good last week after working her final shift in Wellington, NZ Police said in a statement online.
“She’s tracked and made untold catches and backed her human partners in numerous armed incidents across five years of operational service.”
“Now it’s a happy reunion with former handler Stu Rota and family in Tairawhiti where Stu is now working as a sergeant.”
“Dakota’s friendly face is familiar to many beyond the capital city.
“She’s famous for featuring in stunning photos by Senior Constable Jane Dunn, a police forensic photographer in Wellington, and has also featured with Stu in four Dog Squad TV series.”
While dogs more usually keep their paws on the ground, Dakota’s operational life has seen her winched from helicopters on specialist police operations, wowed the crowds at Wings over Wairarapa, skimmed across the water in boats, finished seventh in the 2018 Police Dog National Championships, and enjoyed many a pat from fans at public events.
Thanks for your pawsome service Dakota. Enjoy retirement.
