The Gold Coast community has bid farewell to beloved police dog Hondo, who has died after a seven-year career in the force.
The four-legged enforcer had hundreds of arrests under his collar, including apprehending a wanted man in 2015, and chasing down a teenage car thief earlier this year.
Throughout his tenure in the Gold Coast dog squad, Hondo worked alongside his handler, Nick Donald, who has plenty of fond memories – including of when the pooch found an offender hiding in an unusual spot.
“He’s gone down the back of a barbecue and I thought he’s looking for a sausauge or is there a bit of meat down there?” Donald said.
“All of a sudden the barbecue flips over and out comes the offender screaming while Hondo’s gotten them by the leg.”
Despite his formidable reputation on the job, Hondo was a big softy at home, enjoying beachside ball games and boating.
After retirement, he found a loving home with the Steel family, with the support of the Blue Paws association.
“He lived the life of luxury,” Kristy Steel said.
“There was air conditioning, there was scotch finger biscuits, there was a hydro bath every two weeks.”
Hondo spent his last day surrounded by loved ones, including a visit from Santa.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
