Shack, a service dog with the Vancouver police, is recovering from minor injuries today after allegedly being stabbed by a Burnaby man on Sunday night.
According to a media release, at about 9 p.m. on Dec. 8 Vancouver police spotted a stolen van driving east on Hastings Street near Dunlevy Street. Officers followed the van to Victoria Drive where they boxed in the van in an attempt to arrest the driver.
The suspect refused to cooperate with police and so officers sent out Shack to help bring the suspect into custody. Instead of giving up, the suspect grabbed a pair of scissors and allegedly stabbed Shack several times.
“Fearing for Shack’s safety, the handler jumped in to protect his dog. With the help of other officers, the man was eventually taken into custody,” stated the release.
Shack was taken to a veterinary hospital and treated for minor stab wounds – the police dog is expected to make a full recovery.
Meanwhile, the 31-year-old suspect from Burnaby – well known to police – was treated for dog bites and taken into custody. Police are recommending several charges, including charges for intending to harm a service animal.
