Squamish’s newest RCMP officer is expected to be trained in tracking, article searches and criminal apprehension, with the possibility of becoming proficient at locating narcotics, explosives, and human remains.
The officer will not be given a salary but will be paid with on pats on the head, belly scratches, and frequent praise in the form of: “Good Boy!”
Raddix, a purebred German shepherd, is reporting for duty.
Hailing from Innisfail, Alta., at the RCMP’s Police Dog Service Training Center, he was born a short eight weeks ago before moving to Squamish to start his on-the-job training as a potential police dog.
Under the watch of his supervising officer, Raddix will undergo early familiarization, socialization, and stimulation in the real-world environment.
Raddix will be assessed four times before being accepted to basic training, a five-month program back in his hometown. Raddix will be paired up with a dog handler, and they go through training together. If successful in basic training, Raddix and his handler will be posted anywhere in Canada.
The four-legged constable comes from a long line of policing. His grandfather, Drago, previously served in the Lower Mainland and in Squamish.
“We wish Raddix and [his handler] Constable Savoie well in their training together,” says Cpl. Angela Kermer, of the Sea to Sky RCMP, in a news release. “The pair train in and around the Squamish area, if you see them, please remember that Raddix is learning, so please ask before approaching.”
Anyone with any information regarding any crime is asked to contact the Squamish RCMP at 604-892-6100, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or go to the website www.solvecrime.ca
For more information on the RCMP’s Police Dog Service Program, visit RCMP Police Dogs.
For more information on RCMP careers, visit RCMP Careers.
