B.C. police dog Zeke snatches top prize for third year at national contest

SAANICH, – A British Columbia police dog has claimed the title of top dog for the third year in a row at the Canadian Police Canine Championships.

Zeke (ZEEK) and his handler, Const. Jon Zielinski of the Saanich Police Department, competed against 30 teams at the contest in Kelowna, B.C.

Sgt. Steve Eassie (ESSY) says the amount of effort that Zielinski has put into the partnership since he was paired up with Zeke four years ago is amazing.

Eassie says that besides the incredible connection the six-year-old German shepherd shares with his handler, his all-black colouring also sets him apart in the annual event because most of the other dogs have traditional brown or mixed colours.

Four-legged members of the Victoria Police Department also did well in the competition that tests dogs and handlers in real-life situations.

Victoria dog Bondo placed second overall and second in criminal apprehension, while Uno, from the same department, was first in obedience.