Arkie remembered as a hard-working police dog always ready to fetch
A police dog set to receive a special certificate, recognising his efforts in catching an armed offender at the centre of a four-hour standoff with officers, has died before the presentation could take place.
Arkie with handler Senior Constable Brendon Dellow. They were part of the Maryborough Police Dog Squad.Credit:Queensland Police Service
Queensland Police Dog Arkie died from "unforeseen medical circumstances" on April 26, before he could be presented with his award at a ceremony, which was delayed by restrictions to stem the spread of COVID-19.
Arkie's handler from the Maryborough Dog Squad, Senior Constable Brendon Dellow, collected the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate for himself and on behalf of Arkie, after his canine's death.
The pair were commended for their actions in tracking and arresting a "violent offender", with the help of another police dog and handler duo, according to the police service.
The offender was involved in a four-hour standoff with police and after officers tried twice to subdue him with their tasers, the offender tried to run away.
However, the offender only managed to get 30 metres from the scene before he was caught by Arkie and another police dog, who held on to the offender until their handlers caught up.
Arkie is remembered by his handler as "a hard-working, street-wise police dog with a very, very strong work ethic".Credit:Queensland Police Service
Arkie's handler said wherever he went, Arkie was nearby with a tennis ball in his mouth ready for it to be thrown.
"He just loved being with my family and I and relaxing out on the veranda. He was a hard-working, street-wise police dog with a very, very strong work ethic," Senior Constable Dellow said.
The Assistant Police Commissioner’s Certificate Arkie never got to see.Credit:Queensland Police Service
"Nothing seemed to faze him and you knew whatever situation you might find yourself in, he would be with you by your side.
"I have read all of the messages posted about Arkie and I am appreciative of and humbled by everyone’s outpouring of support, thank you."
The police service remembered Arkie - who had been in the service since July 7, 2013 - in a statement issued on Wednesday.
"PD Arkie has been involved in numerous jobs in the Maryborough Patrol Group, and countless successful tracks and apprehensions," the tribute said.
"The bond between a PD and their handler can be described as unbreakable as they promise to keep one another safe.
"While PD Arkie was off duty, he loved his 6am ball throwing sessions.
"PD Arkie, with honour you served, and it was our honour to serve with you."