Teak, a longtime member of the Vancouver police force, was stabbed on Friday; he was set to retire in just a couple of weeks. The German shepherd is said to be in stable condition at a local veterinary clinic and will most likely go into retirement early. Teak was not wearing his protective vest, and it is said that it would have done very little to protect him due to the area of injury. The vests are only worn in extreme conditions, such as hostage standoffs.
The 20 year old was arrested and faces several charges, including robbery, weapons offences as well as assaulting a police officer. The chase having started at 7:30 around Fraser street and Marine drive, Teak and his handle caught up to the suspect on East 52nd Ave and Fraser. It was while Teak was waiting for the suspect to be detained that the dog was stabbed, officers originally thought the suspect was punching the dog. Teak’s handler whose name has not been released is seeking support while Teak recovers.
So far Teak has gone through a surgery immediately upon arrival at the veterinary clinic on Friday as well as one on early Saturday, with the results favouring a good recovery for the officer. According to the clinic he is staying in Teak is staying overnight for observations and will most likely be released home tomorrow.
Having recently received a medal for bravery, Teak was looking forward to becoming a family pet at his handler’s home. It is said the dogs sleeps in a bed beside his handler and is every much a part of the family as anyone else. Not only does this dog serve and protect but is well loved, many of the off duty officers having gone to visit Teak and show support while he was in surgery.
In addition to his newest award for bravery, Teak has also received an award from the Lieutenant Governor just last year. This is not the first injury for Teak, just last year he was beaten in the head and body area by a suspect in Victoria.
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