Becoming a police dog is a prestigious position that demands rigorous training and commitment. These canines must attend the police dog academy and undergo specialized instruction to tackle tough criminals as part of the paw enforcement team.
Back in 2016, Gavel was just a little six-week-old German Shepherd pup, training alongside 40 other police puppies in sunny Queensland, Australia. With a prestigious bloodline of working police dogs, Gavel was destined for a career in crime-fighting. However, fate had other plans for him.
Despite high hopes for Gavel to join the Queensland Dog Squad and chase down bad guys, it soon became clear that his real talent lay in receiving belly rubs and ear scratches rather than chasing after criminals.
While Gavel may have flunked out of the police academy, he found an even better job that allowed him to just be himself and enjoy the finer things in life. Say hello to Gavel: from Police Dog Drop-Out to Vice-Regal Dog.
Gavel arrived at the Government House in Queensland in April 2016, eager to start his training as a police dog. He was expected to join the prestigious Queensland Police Service Dog Squad after a year of preparation. Gavel went through basic obedience training and was even given a uniform with the Queensland Police Service emblem. However, it soon became apparent that Gavel was more interested in cuddles than crime-fighting, and he had a particular fondness for treats.
After his year at the Government House, Gavel’s handlers reported that he didn’t have the necessary skills for police work. Despite this, Gavel had become a beloved member of the Government House family. Fortunately, the Governor decided to adopt Gavel and give him a new role. In February 2017, Gavel was officially appointed as Queensland’s first Vice-Regal Dog, a position that suited his friendly and affectionate nature perfectly.
He even casually put his paw print on his own contract! How adorable!
Gavel had the important role of assisting Governor Paul de Jersey in carrying out important constitutional, ceremonial, and community duties such as greeting guests, leading tours, attending formal events, and of course, being incredibly cute.
During special occasions, Gavel proudly wore his custom-designed ceremonial coat adorned with the state symbols of Queensland. In fact, as Queensland’s official Vice-Regal Dog, Gavel went through four ceremonial coats as he outgrew them. The earlier coats also featured the insignia of the Queensland Police Service.
This charming pup has not only captured the hearts of everyone at Government House, but has also shown that there are many paths to success. It serves as a reminder for all of us that sometimes failure is necessary in order to ultimately succeed.
Gavel continued to enjoy his wonderful life at one of Brisbane’s most prestigious locations, proudly displaying the symbols of the state he represents.
Gavel wasn’t just any ordinary Vice-Regal dog in the State, he was also the beloved star of a popular children’s book. The story chronicles his adventures as he navigates through life, trying to find his true purpose and where he truly belongs.
In late October 2021, the Governor of Queensland’s Instagram page announced that Gavel, the German Shepherd, had retired after 40 dog years of loyal service.
During his time in service, Gavel was showered with love not just from His Excellency and Mrs. de Jersey, but also from his handler and companion, who will continue to care for him in retirement. Gavel truly captured the hearts of everyone he encountered, and while he may not have become a police dog as initially planned, he performed his vice-regal duties with grace. His welcoming nature and ability to put guests at ease was truly commendable. And if you’re wondering, Gavel is still happily residing at the Government House property in Brisbane, where he is enjoying a well-deserved retirement filled with love, treats, and plenty of pats. Take a moment to relive some of Gavel’s favorite moments from his time at Government House.
