Life is far from ruff for former police dogs, Otis and Mickey, following their retirement from the NSW Police Force.
Mickey, an English springer spaniel, joined the force in 2010 as an explosive detection dog and has worked at several major events, including the State of Origin, Rugby League World Cup and City2Surf. He also showed off his impressive skills for several years at the Sydney Royal Easter Show before his retirement in June 2018.
Otis, a German Shepherd, worked as a general purpose police dog; helping to track offenders and locate missing people since 2012. He continued to serve the community until his retirement in December 2019.
Both dogs are in the care of police dog handler, Senior Constable Andrew Bennett, who used to work with the pair at the Dog and Mounted Command.
“They’re coping really well as retired police dogs – they’ve just become part of the family. We all go for walks together and they like to eat the leftover bread crusts,” S/Cst Bennett said.
“It’s not common to have a dog handler take on two retired police dogs but I’m more than happy to look after them as they’ve helped look after me for so long.
“I think being a dog handler in the NSW Police Force is one of the most rewarding jobs because you get to come to work with your best friend every day.”
S/Cst Bennett said Mickey still loves to chase a tennis ball while Otis has become more easy-going in his older age. Both dogs are also good friends with S/Cst Bennett’s current police dog, Boss.
Dog and Mounted Unit Commander, Superintendent Peter McErlain, said he was glad to see these former police dogs enjoying the simple life.
“Both Mickey and Otis have served their community well – going above and beyond to keep us safe for a decade,” Supt McErlain said.
“It’s only right they now get to relax, enjoy an extra treat or two and have a well-deserved nap in the sun.”
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