Four patrol dog teams graduated from the Police Dog Training Centre in Trentham today (11 July). The teams represented a vast range of experience, one handler graduating with his first dog and in Senior Constable Pete Hanlin’s case, his tenth.
Senior Constable Hanlin graduated with Zero, and in doing so marked 27 years pounding the beat on dog section, making him the longest serving patrol dog handler in the country.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner Viv Rickard who spoke of the professionalism and devotion to duty of dogs and handlers throughout the country. He also acknowledged the family support which enables teams like these to work on the frontline, at all hours, to keep our communities safe.
Patrol dog work is one of the most physically demanding roles in Police but Senior Constable Hanlin says there is plenty more gas in the tank and he is looking forward to getting back to work in Dunedin.
The graduating teams were:
- Constable Matt Hay from Hamilton with Exxo.
- Senior Constable Brendon Ross from Palmerston North with Deja.
- Constable Alan Duncan from Dunedin with Brook.
- Senior Constable Pete Hanlin from Dunedin with Zero.
Photo 1: Senior Constable Pete Hanlin and Zero with Deputy Commissioner Viv Rickard.
Photo 2: Deputy Commissioner Rickard made reference to liking the black German Shepherds in his speech - Zero repaid the compliment during the photo shoot!
Ends.
Released by:
Penelope Clevely
Communications Manager: RNZPC
penelope.clevely@police.govt.nz
021 326 922
