The Vancouver Police Department and the Vancouver Police Foundation are celebrating both heartfelt goodbyes and exciting new beginnings within the Canine Unit. This week we honour the well-earned retirements of two exceptional Police Service Dogs, PSD Gibbs and PSD Solo, whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact. At the same time, we proudly welcome three new canines to the team, each receiving their official VPD badges as they begin their careers alongside their handlers. Please join us in saying a virtual hello to PSD Bowser, PSD Oak, and PSD Arkham!
WELCOME PSD BOWSER, PSD OAK, & PSD ARKHAM!
PSD Bowser is a two-year-old Dutch Shepherd born on February 4, 2023. Along with his canine colleagues, Oak and Arkham, he received his official police canine badge from VPD Chief Constable Steve Rai this week. Bowser and his veteran handler Constable Chris Hudson have been proudly serving on the road since May 2025. Since graduating from the canine training program, Bowser went on to also complete a six-week explosive detection course. Known for his high energy, agility, and impressive strength, Bowser is always ready for the next challenge. Off duty, he can be found diving into any body of water and happily working away at his favourite chew toys. Fun fact: Bowser is the department’s very first Dutch Shepherd, and his younger brother will be also joining the VPD Canine Unit as a new recruit in training with veteran handler Constable Dennis Jesus in January 2026.
PSD Oak is a Belgian Malinois and was born on June 10, 2023. He successfully completed his rigorous training alongside handler Constable Mark McLeod late last spring, and they officially began working together in June 2025. Oak is known for his focus, loyalty, and tenacity, traits that make him an exceptional partner in the field. When he’s off duty, he’s happiest on a long hike or chasing any type of ball he can find. When choosing his name, Constable McLeod wanted something short and strong, as well as a name that’s never been used in the VPD Canine Unit previously, so “Oak” was the perfect fit.
PSD Arkham is a two-year-old German Shepherd born May 5, 2023. After completing the demanding training with his handler, Constable Danny Chiao, the duo began working in June 2025 as well. Arkham’s focus, drive, and strong working instincts make him an invaluable addition to the team. Affectionate and deeply loyal, Arkham is not only a reliable partner in the field but also Constable Chiao’s favourite running companion. His name, chosen by Constable Chiao, is a nod to Batman, inspired by the iconic Arkham Asylum. Together with his two other rookie canine colleagues, his skills will play a vital role in helping make Vancouver safer for all.
PSD GIBBS & PSD SOLO ENJOY A WELL-EARNED RETIREMENT
PSD Gibbs, born on June 1, 2016 in Slovakia, began his Canadian adventure in April 2018 and served VPD Canine Unit with dedication and heart. Partnered with Constable Dennis Jesus, Gibbs has now transitioned into his well-earned retirement as Constable Jesus’ family dog. At home, he loves hanging out with his four-legged sibling, Zaida the German Shorthaired Pointer, who may be older but still proudly remains the boss. Gibbs also adores his two human siblings, who love nothing more than cuddling him, showering him with treats, and showing him off to friends. So far retirement has been good to Gibbs: he spends his days playing in the backyard, going for walks and runs with Constable Jesus, chasing his Kong, playing fetch, and enjoying plenty of well-deserved naps.
PSD Solo was largest dog in the VPD Canine Unit for many years, weighing in at an impressive 93 lbs. He served with strength and courage from the moment he joined the team at just 18 months old. Born on November 21, 2018, PSD Solo quickly became known for his powerful build and his unwavering drive, especially when it came to using his exceptional nose to track down criminals. Now happily retired, Solo is enjoying a much-deserved life of leisure at home with his handler, Constable Nick Forklow and family. These days, Solo had traded in shift work for relaxation at home and all the treats his family provides.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THESE CANINE HEROES:
Adopt a Canine – Bring a K9 into your family with a virtual adoption.
Canine Adoption Kit – Includes an 8″ K9 plush, adoption certificate, and K9 profile card. Great holiday giving!
Buy the 2026 VPD K9 Calendar – Featuring Gibbs and Solo, along with the three rookies, Bowser, Oak and Arkham plus the rest of their Canine colleagues, get your calendars before they sell out! All proceeds supporting BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and BC Cancer Foundation.
Donate in their honour – Support the Canine Unit with a gift that funds safety equipment, training, and enrichment for new VPD Police Service Dogs.
The Vancouver Police Foundation supports programs and initiatives that fall within three streams: community outreach and engagement (including programs for women, youth and seniors); public and personal safety; and specialized equipment and technology. You can help make Vancouver safer for all by donating to the Vancouver Police Foundation.
