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'Rest in peace, girl': VPD says goodbye to Police Service Dog Bailey

One of Vancouver’s much-loved retired Police Service Dogs sadly has died
Bailey with her handler and partner Constable LeQuesne
Bailey with her handler and partner Constable LeQuesne. Photo: VPD

One of Vancouver’s much-loved Police Service Dogs sadly has died.

The Vancouver Police Department said retired Canine Unit PSD Bailey died suddenly and unexpectedly from cancer on Tuesday night.

"Bailey became suddenly sick yesterday morning and was taken to a local veterinary clinic," VPD Sgt. Jason Robillard said.

"It was discovered that she had a large tumour and was very ill."

Bailey
Bailey was given a hero’s send-off. - VPD

Sgt. Robillard said Bailey’s handler and partner, Constable LeQuesne, took Bailey back the VPD kennel for her remaining few hours.

"Bailey was transported back to the clinic last night just after 7:30 p.m. in a procession of dozens of officers and family members," he said.

"She was given a hero’s send-off and sadly passed later that evening."

PSD Bailey was born on April 19, 2011. She had completed seven full years of service for the VPD and retired in January from a back injury.

Both the VPD and the VPD Canine Unit took to social media to share the sad loss.

"VPD Canine Unit said goodbye to ret. PSD Bailey, it was sudden and unexpected as cancer always is “Trust in me my friend, for I am your comrade. I will protect you with my last breath. When all others have left you and the loneliness of night closes in, I will be at your side,” the Canine Unit posted.

While the VPD shared that it was “saddened at the sudden passing of Police Service Dog Bailey."

"Our thoughts are with her handler, partner and family, and her family at VPD Canine Unit,” the post stated.

"You were a special dog Bailey. You will be missed. Thank you for your service.

"Rest in peace, girl."