Nanaimo RCMP have welcomed a new police service dog to their team.
Basko was born May 2 at the RCMP Police Dog Service Training Centre in Innisfail, Alta., and police say he is a promising young pup.
“Basko has some big paws to fill but his family history and early development are already setting the stage for what we hope will be a successful future in Police Dog Services,” said Cst. Jordan Braid, handler for Police Service Dog Neon.
Neon is Basko’s father and currently serves in Nanaimo. The puppy’s grandfather, Jago, was killed in the line of duty in 2021 while tracking a suspect near High Prairie, Alta.
“While Basko may still be young, his journey toward becoming a Police Service Dog is already underway,” reads a news release from Nanaimo RCMP. “Basko will be raised and trained by a specially selected imprinter, a police officer trained to develop future police dogs from puppyhood. Under the guidance of experienced Police Dog Services members, Basko will spend the next one to two years learning the skills required of an RCMP Police Service Dog.”
Police say residents may see the puppy in the community as he explores and is exposed to different environments as part of his training.
