Just weeks after losing police dog Quanto, the Edmonton Police Service’s Canine Unit held a public event to thank residents for their support.
“Since October 7, when we lost Quanto, the support that we’ve received has been astonishing,” Staff Sgt. Troy Carriere said.
Staff Sgt. Carriere said they had offers of support and condolence from all over North America.
“A lot of people do see the pain that it does cause when we do lose part of our family.”
Corey Yestal has a friend who is part of the Canine Unit and he said he knows how important the animals are to their handlers.
“They live with them. They are 24-7 with them. It is something that is part of their blood.
“It’s a big hit. It is sad to see a dog like that go,” he added.
“They keep our community very safe so we should all be grateful that we have them.”
Staff Sgt. Carriere explained that they have 12 teams deployed each night and the event at Hawrelak Park was a way to give residents a first-hand demonstration of the type of work the canine teams do.
“It was a meet and greet for all of the community to meet a lot of our teams.”
According to Staff Sgt. Carriere, Quanto was the fifth service dog the EPS has lost since 1967, when the Canine Unit was officially formed.
“Quanto being deployed to apprehend the suspect saved the member’s life, or members’ lives, that day. That was his job.”
With files from Sarah Richter
