February 14th, 2014
On Tuesday, February 11, 2014, a K-9 Memorial was unveiled with much fanfare as this was the first time these loyal companions and protectors were recognized as a very important part of the police workforce.
"I have been involved with pet loss for well over a decade, and throughout the years I have helped many handlers through the loss of their beloved companion - from the Beagle at Canada Agriculture, the lab in Drug Enforcement and numerous police K-9. The immense sense of loss and grief I witnessed when losing a 'partner', even though they have 4 paws, has always stayed with me." says Jocelyne Monette founder of Pet Loss Care Memorial Center.
She decided to help validate these 'partners' after helping another police officer in 2012.
"Last year, I had the honor to care for Pago, the beloved partner of VicPD Officer Sue McLeod. Through many conversations, shared memories, tears and laughter, the K-9 memorial evolved into what it is today. Without Sue's direct input with the department, this may well be just a dream." Monette adds,
"I am honored to present this to the Victoria community and I applaud the VicPD in not only recognizing their contributions, but in validating the 'partner' bond in their K-9 workforce."
The K-9 Memorial will be on display at Police Headquarters on Pandora.
Read
Pago's story and leave comments for Officer Sue McLeod.