Oxley-Trained Kaos: A Legacy of Service and Canine Camaraderie

The Queensland Police Service is mourning the passing of retired Police Dog Kaos. The highly decorated canine officer, who received his initial training in Oxley, died peacefully at the age of 12 and will be forever remembered.



Kaos, a beloved member of the Brisbane Dog Squad, served alongside his handler, Senior Constable Jim Griffiths, from 2014 to 2021, leaving an indelible mark on the force and the community he protected.

A Decorated Career

Kaos’s dedication and bravery were recognised just last month when he was awarded the Canine Service Medal for his outstanding service and countless contributions to apprehending offenders.

One particularly harrowing incident occurred in February 2020 during an arrest in Gordon Park, where Kaos sustained a 12-centimetre stab wound to the chest. Despite this serious injury, Kaos made a remarkable recovery and courageously returned to duty a month later.

His courage also earned him the prestigious German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia (GSDCA) Outstanding Canine Service Award in 2021 – the highest honour bestowed upon a German Shepherd in the country.

A Gentle Giant in Retirement

Following his retirement in July 2021, Kaos enjoyed a well-deserved life of leisure with Senior Constable Griffiths and his family in Dayboro. Known for his fierce determination on the job, Kaos was a gentle soul off-duty. 

He became a familiar face at the local cafe, basking in the sun and earning the affection of patrons. Additionally, he continued his heartwarming visits to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, bringing comfort and smiles to young patients.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Kaos’s unexpected passing on Saturday, 10 August, has left a void in the hearts of many. Senior Constable Griffiths remembers Kaos as a loyal partner and a cherished friend. “With honour he served, and it was an honour to serve with him,” Griffiths shared, reflecting on their unbreakable bond.

The Queensland Police Service extends its deepest condolences to Senior Constable Griffiths and his family. Kaos’s legacy of courage, loyalty, and unwavering service will forever be remembered.



Published Date 22-August-2024

Aussie Champ: The Kaos That Conquered the Canine World

Kaos, the retired police dog from Oxley, has been named a finalist in the inaugural ‘The Dog Down Under‘ campaign, a nationwide search celebrating the remarkable bond between Australians and their canine companions.



Kaos, alongside other extraordinary dogs from across the country, will feature in a five-part television series on Channel 10 starting 7th  September 2024.

Lara Shannon, a renowned dog expert, is the campaign’s host. It aims to highlight the various roles dogs play in our lives. From everyday heroes to sporting legends, the stories are a testament to the unwavering loyalty and love these animals provide.

Kaos’ Story: A Testament to Courage and Resilience

Photo Credit: Supplied

Kaos’ story is one of courage and resilience. During his nine years of service with the Queensland Police, he was instrumental in apprehending hundreds of offenders. However, in February 2020, he was severely injured while apprehending two dangerous individuals in North Brisbane.

Despite sustaining a deep laceration to his throat, Kaos persevered, even managing to apprehend the second offender while gravely wounded. His recovery was remarkable, and he returned to full operational duties after a few months. This incident led to the passing of a new law offering greater protection to police dogs and horses, solidifying Kaos’ legacy in Queensland.

Now retired and living with his handler, James, and his family, Kaos continues to serve the community by raising awareness about the crucial role police dogs play in maintaining safety. His story is a testament to the unwavering dedication and bravery these animals demonstrate in their service.

Queensland’s Canine Stars Shine Bright

Alongside Kaos, the “The Dog Down Under” campaign also highlights other exceptional Queensland dogs.

Phil, the 19.5-Year-Old Pirate

Photo Credit: Supplied

This spirited senior dog, a finalist in the Oldest Dog category, has defied the odds and continues to enjoy life to the fullest with his loving family in Brisbane.

Ninna, the Lifesaver 

Photo Credit: Supplied

A 14-year-old Staffy, Ninna is not just a beloved therapy dog but also a guardian angel to her owner, Alyssa. She saved Alyssa’s life during a car accident and continues to help her navigate the world despite her blindness.

Roxy, the Blind Sledder’s Guide 

Photo Credit: Supplied

This South Australian Siberian Husky is a sporting legend, guiding her legally blind owner, Lilyana, through the thrills and challenges of dog sledding. Their bond is a testament to the unwavering trust and loyalty between humans and dogs.

Bunny, the Musical Maestro

Photo Credit: Supplied

A talented Boston Terrier from New South Wales, Bunny’s musical prowess on the piano has captured hearts worldwide, proving that dogs can excel in the most unexpected ways.

The upcoming television series will showcase heartwarming stories to celebrate the incredible bond between humans and their furry friends.



Published Date 17-June-2024

Meet Etta and Kaos, Two Best Pups of the QPS Dog Squad

In the fight for peace and order, two impressive four-legged service dogs have become the pride of the Queensland Police Service Dog Squad in Oxley. Police Dog Etta is a young recruit with a bright future ahead of her and Police Dog Kaos is a heroic service dog who recently received a medal for bravery. 



Police Dog Etta is the first tech detection dog, whose main role is to help QPS track down illegal activities by terrorists and paedophiles in investigations involving counter-terrorism and child abuse crimes.

She has been developing her ability to sniff out particular odours to find concealed hard drives, SIM cards, USBs, and other devices that police officers may overlook.  


Highlights

  • Etta is the first tech detection dog for the Queensland Police Service Dog Squad.
  • She will help Taskforce Argos detect concealed tech devices in police operations.
  • Kaos received a medal for his bravery from the German Dog Shepherd Council of Australia.
  • He has recovered from the stabbing he incurred whilst chasing vehicle thieves.

The pup will work alongside Taskforce Argos and has been training under Sergeant Jaye Lilley. After a careful study, QPS officials said that they had a great need for tech detection service dogs and started training Etta, who could be ready for her first operation in September 2021. 

Etta is part of the Dog Squad, where 103 service dogs have been proving to be QPS’ assets in finding dead bodies, assisting in rescue operations, and tracking down evidence in critical police work.

Meanwhile, Police Dog Kaos received the highest medal of honour for a German Shepherd from the German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia (GSDCA) for his heroic accomplishment. In February 2020, Kaos was seriously injured while in pursuit of vehicle thieves. 

The experienced police dog was stabbed in the throat but showed no fear or weakness despite the injury. Kaos recovered from injuries a month after the horrible incident and was back on duty, patrolling the streets.



“We are pleased to award Kaos after his seven years of service with the Queensland Police Service,” Annie Tamblyn from GSDC said. “He is a dog that was both feared by criminals and loved by children, especially when he would visit them at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.”

Senior Constable Jim Griffiths, Kaos’ handler, accepted the award on the dog’s behalf. 

“Our police dogs do amazing things every day, so I am honoured Kaos has had the opportunity to be recognised for what he did.”