REGINA -- A long-serving and furry member of the Ministry of Environment has retired from Conservation Officer duties.
Jaks, a Conservation Officer Service Dog, will be hanging up his collar after an eight-year career.
His handler, Conservation Officer Cpl. Jamie Chartrand, said the 10-year-old Belgium Malinois helped officers with hundreds of investigations.
Jaks’ knack for locating evidence led the ministry and other law enforcement agencies to numerous criminal convictions and fines totalling tens of thousands of dollars.
“One of his favorite parts of the job was tracking,” Chartrand said. “Jaks tracked down numerous criminals during his career. This is often the most dangerous part of the job.”
Chartrand and Jaks also helped educate the public about the use of natural resources at community events, presentations and school visits.
A multiple award-winning canine, Jaks won numerous accolades at the Canadian Police Canine Championships in Alberta, including fourth and second place finishes in the top dog category.
Although he will be off the clock, Jaks has been adopted by Cpl. Chartrand so the pair will be continuing their adventures together.
Jaks is being replaced by a young female German Shepard name Tai, who has recently completed her training.
10-year-old Jaks (left) will be replaced by a young German Shepard named Tai (right). (Source: Government of Saskatchewan)
