Two OPP canine officers have retired this month after years of service in the northeast

Two OPP police dogs, Otis, 10, and Dance, 8, retire after years of service in tracking, drug detection, and search-and-rescue.

Two Ontario Provincial Police canine officers, Dance and Otis, have retired this month after years of dedicated service in northeastern Ontario.

The OPP canine unit is a specialized unit within the organization that utilizes dogs and their handlers to enhance law enforcement operations. These canine teams are deployed for various tasks, including search and rescue, tracking evidence and suspects, and detecting narcotics and explosives.

Otis

Otis, a 10-year-old German Shepherd, spent his career tracking suspects, detecting drugs, and assisting frontline officers in Sault Ste. Marie.

In a social media post Wednesday announcing Otis’ retirement, OPP praised his commitment to his duty.

“He’s always ready to work, but like his handler’s other partner, Dance, it’s time for a well-earned retirement,” the police service said.

Dance

Earlier this month, on May 13, OPP announced Dance’s retirement – the eight-year-old black Lab, was one of the police service’s first Wilderness Search and Rescue dogs. Dance specialized in locating missing persons and human remains.

“Her determination and skills have made a lasting impact,” OPP said in a social media post announcing her retirement.

Dedicated partners

Both dogs worked alongside OPP canine handler Const. Barry Kelly – an officer with more than 30 years of experience.

Const. Kelly’s former partner, Timber, retired in 2017 and lived with him, Dance and Otis until his passing in October 2023.

The service has not stated where Otis or Dance will live in retirement, but most canine officers remain with their handlers when possible or move in with adoptive families.