Queensland Corrective Services’ most famous drug detection dog, Thommo has ‘bow-wowed’ out of official duty at one of his all-time favourite places – the Brisbane Ekka.
The 10-year-old Labrador received a ‘golden paw shake’ on his retirement from one of his biggest fans, Minister for Corrective Services Mark Ryan.
“Thommo, alongside his handler Scott, has been an integral part of keeping Queensland’s correctional centres safe for the past nine years,” Minister Ryan said.
“Since earning his sniffer stripes as a Passive Alert Drug Detection (PADD) dog in 2013, Thommo has detected illegal contraband while working at four South East Queensland correctional centres.
“The loyal Labrador has helped to train other QCS PADD dogs, assisted police with operations and search warrants, and endeared himself to adoring crowds at countless public appearances, including at previous Ekkas.”
Minister Ryan said Thommo has received numerous awards during his corrections career including the QCS Top Dog Award for PADD dogs in 2020 and five-year Canine Service Medal from the Australian Defence Force Trackers and War Dogs Association.
“Thommo has certainly done us proud with his ‘paw-some’ hard work and dedication to detecting drugs in prisons and we wish him all the best for a well-earned, restful retirement.”
PADD dog handler Scott said Thommo’s greatest attributes have been his work ethic, with an ability to search on and on, to perform demonstrations and to keep his human best friend happy every day.
“I’ll miss Thommo so much when I am at work but I understand that it is his time to kick back and enjoy retired life.
“For Thommo, retirement means long walks in the neighbourhood, lazing in the backyard at home, chasing a ball and his favourite pastime, which is going for a swim.”
