Being a law enforcement canine is certainly a respectable occupation, yet it demands extensive training and commitment. To join the paw enforcement ranks, pups must successfully complete the police dog academy and receive training to confront hardened offenders.
In 2016, Gavel, a six-week-old German Shepherd pup, was among the 40 police puppies undergoing training in the Australian region of Queensland.
Originating from a “long lineage of purebred dogs associated with police work,” [1] Gavel seemed to have an auspicious future. Everyone was convinced he would soon be apprehending criminals as a cherished member of the Queensland Dog Squad.
However, circumstances did not unfold as anticipated. It became apparent that Gavel had a preference for affection rather than patrolling.
Regrettably, Gavel did not succeed at the police academy, but he acquired an even more remarkable position that allowed him to embrace his true self and relish life to the fullest.
From Police Dog Drop-Out To Vice-Regal Canine
In April 2016, Gavel arrived at the Government House in Queensland as a hopeful police dog. He was slated to remain there for a year, getting ready to become part of the elite Queensland Police Service Dog Squad.
Gavel underwent basic obedience training and was presented with a formal uniform adorned with the insignia of the Queensland Police Service.
Nevertheless, something felt amiss.
It became clear that Gavel preferred affection to patrols, and he had a keen love for treats.
At the end of the year at the Government House, a report from the police handlers indicated that Gavel “did not exhibit the requisite aptitude for a life on the front lines”.
However, Gavel had become a treasured member of the Government House family, and fortunately, the Governor made the decision to adopt the pup and assign him a brand-new role.
In February 2017, a formal position was established, and Gavel was appointed as Queensland’s inaugural Vice-Regal Dog.
He even “pawed” his own contract! How charming!
Gavel’s responsibilities included supporting the Governor, the Honorable Paul de Jersey, undertaking significant constitutional, ceremonial, and community roles: greeting guests, leading tours, attending formal events, and most importantly, being irresistibly adorable.
On special occasions, Gavel proudly donned his custom-designed ceremonial coat featuring the state emblems of Queensland.
In fact, as Queensland’s official Vice-Regal Dog, Gavel outgrew four ceremonial coats. The earlier versions also had the insignia of the Queensland Police Service.
This charming boy has not only captured the hearts of everyone at the Government House, but has also demonstrated that numerous paths to success exist.
It serves as a lesson for everyone since sometimes, you indeed must fail in order to succeed.
Gavel continued to enjoy his life in one of Brisbane’s most esteemed locations, proudly displaying the symbols of the State he represents.
Gavel was not merely the State’s first Vice-Regal dog but also the central character of an illustrated children’s book, chronicling his quest for finding his place in the world and his ultimate calling.