Five Abbotsford police officers were among nine dog handlers and their dogs who were honoured last Thursday evening for their dedication and commitment.
The teams are all part of the Integrated Police Dog Service (IPDS). They were recognized during the RCMP Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment's third annual "Recognizing Excellence" awards ceremony.
A total of 87 recipients received awards for everything from life-saving incidents to long-service medals.
IPDS members recognized from Abbotsford were: Cpl. Doug Buchanan and his dog Titus, Const. Chris Scott and Diego, Const. Aaron Courtney and Koda, Const. Shaun Nagel and Fritz, and Const. Mark Zawadsky and Deuce.
The four remaining teams are all from the RCMP: team leader Sgt. Pat Lockert and Tork, Const. Mike Jordan and JD, Const. Rod Cardinal and Tarr, and Const. AJ Stewart and Taro.
“Our team attends to anything where they think their dog can assist without hesitation because they love their job and they want to be there, as does the police dog who wags his tail with excitement when the handler attends a scene,” Lockert said.
The UFVRD includes Chilliwack, Hope, Harrison, Agassiz/Kent, Abbotsford and Mission.