Farewell to police dogs: After a decade, the service is retiring

On Thursday, June 5, a special ceremony took place at the Municipal Police Headquarters in Szczecin. Three four-legged stars – Kałam, Lejmur and Karzeł – officially retired after ten years of loyal and demanding service.

In the presence of management staff, guides, guests, the youngest supporters from a nearby kindergarten and students of cynology, a moving finale of a very active dog career took place. The ceremony began with a demonstration of the dogs' training, during which their extraordinary skills of tracking, obedience and overpowering perpetrators were presented.

One of the heroes of the event was the dog Karzeł, who was led by Asp. Piotr Szczepanowski throughout his service. The moved handler did not hide his emotions:

– I'm taking Karł home – he said. – He's not just a service dog, he's my partner and friend. He's been with me in the most difficult moments. We worked together on arrests, searches, tracking down perpetrators, finding missing people. I know that no one will understand better what it means to be a team than a dog that was able to react without a word when action was needed. Now it's time for fun, long walks and rest. But he still loves to work – that hasn't changed, only now it will be work "for fun".

Words of appreciation and gratitude also flowed from Senior Sergeant Paweł Naworski, head of the service dog handlers unit:

- These are dogs that make a huge difference. Every day somewhere in Poland a police dog saves someone's life, stops a criminal, finds a missing person. People's successes are talked about, but the successes of our dogs are just as great. I remember operations in which Lejmur and Kałam played key roles - one of the children found in the forest, arrests in the act, tracking down fugitives. For a dog, it doesn't matter how difficult the terrain is, it simply works. And it does it with dedication, instinct, passion. Now it is our responsibility to provide them with a dignified retirement.

After the official speeches and presentation of commemorative diplomas and congratulations to the handlers, it was time for a symbolic moment – ​​saying goodbye to the service dogs. The four-legged friends also received special treats – their favorite chews and snacks prepared especially for the occasion.

Although their service has ended, one thing remains unchanged – gratitude, respect and great sympathy they have gained from both their colleagues from the unit and the residents of Szczecin. From today on, a new life and well-deserved peace await them in retirement. ©℗ (dg)