Police Pups Prove Their Mettle in Fierce In-House Showdown
Police dogs went nose-to-nose in a tough in-house trial, battling for top honours in obedience, criminal work, and tracking. The best of the best got special shout-outs for their hard work and razor-sharp skills.
Sergeant Hails Canine Crack Team
Sergeant Jon Harwood said: “Each year, as part of our national standards, all police dogs and their handlers must be re-licensed to ensure they remain safe, effective, and fully capable in their roles. These assessments test obedience, agility, and specialist skills such as tracking and searching. As part of this process, we hold our own in‑house dog trials and recognise the top‑performing team.”
“I’m incredibly proud of our police dogs and their handlers. These trials add an element of fun while also providing valuable training for our general-purpose dogs.
“Being a dog handler is very different from the average policing role—you literally take your work home. Our dogs live with us, eat with us, and need the same care, exercise, and attention as any household pet, and then some.
“It’s a significant lifestyle change not just for the handler but for their whole family, and we want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank them as well.”
Meet Wiltshire’s Top Dogs and Their Handlers
- PC Craig Head and PD Vagus bagged the Chief Constable Award and Best Nose, with backing from Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson.
- PC Leanne Kavangh and PD Stan triumphed in criminal work, earning praise from Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith.
- PC Vicki Pegrum and PD Texa took home the obedience crown.
These canine champions and their handlers keep Wiltshire safe — sniffing out crime one paw at a time.
