Police Dog Ernie
2015-2022
Handled by PC 3607 Farley
Ernie (named after a retired officer) was a Mechelse herder, who came to The Hampshire and IOW Constabulary as a puppy, with his sister Tess.
Through the early stages of his training, it was clear that he was going to be a very capable police dog with character in abundance.
Having licensed for operational patrol in July 2017, Ernie quickly established himself as an officer favourite. You knew that when Ernie arrived, he always gave everything and if there was someone, or something to find, he would certainly find it.
Within a year, Ernie had proved himself ‘on the street’ and went on to achieve Firearm Support Dog status, which meant he could work alongside the firearms teams at the highest of threat incidents, putting himself in harm’s way to protect others.
In 2020, Ernie was injured protecting his handler and detaining a male with an axe for which he received a Chief Constable’s Commendation for courage and bravery.
“Ernie had big attitude but a bigger heart. He was loved by everyone, except the criminals, and enjoyed time in the garden with his family where he could switch off and relax, but when it came to work, there was no other partner that I wanted by my side. Taken too soon, but once met, never forgotten”
