Woodstock police are turning to the public for help naming their new canine officer.
The 2-year-old male German Shepherd was born in the Netherlands but came to Woodstock from Tri-State Canine, a dog training facility in Ohio. Certified for general patrol, the pup is described as very active and highly motivated to work.
On Wednesday, police opened a competition to name the pooch.
"We are excited to see the creativity and enthusiasm of our community in choosing a fitting name for our new four-legged officer," said Chief Rod Wilkinson. "This is a wonderful opportunity for us all to come together, celebrate the strength of our community, and pay homage to the invaluable role played by our police dogs in keeping Woodstock safe."
Name ideas can be submitted at [email protected] or by filling out the special Google form crafted for the competition. In addition to bragging rights, police teased the person with the winning submission may just receive a prize.
The contest is open until the end of the day on February 25.
The new furry officer replaces PSD Taz, the canine officer who died last summer after ingesting methamphetamine during a drug trafficking investigation Woodstock police were assisting with.
“He has big paws to fill, but I am confident he will be a valuable member of the Woodstock Police Service,” said Constable Dan Skillings, the new canine's human partner.
