Police Dog Yuli will retire today after a long and distinguished drug-sniffing career.

Launceston-based Yuli is one of Tasmania Police’s two original drugs detection dogs and has detected more than $10million worth of drugs.

A 9½-year-old yellow Labrador, Yuli will spend his twilight years with his handler, Senior Constable Jareth Anderson and family.

At a retirement ceremony today he will be presented with a certificate of appreciation by Commissioner Darren Hine.

Yuli’s best dog friend, Flicka, retired last year after being diagnosed with arthritis.
The two went through their training together and for many years were Tasmania Police’s only drugs detection dogs.

It’s usual for police dogs to retire after seven years’ service but Yuli stayed on for an additional year to cover the workload for Flicka until more dogs could be recruited.

Over the years Yuli’s duties have included screening mail, baggage, people, vehicles, buildings and freight for the scent of illicit drugs such as cannabis, cocaine and amphetamines.

In his first year he detected cannabis worth $70,000 concealed in the back of a car.
Last year at the Launceston airport he detected 100g of methylamphetamine that a woman had concealed on herself.

Senior Constable Anderson said:

“He’s had some really impressive finds over the years.

“His expert nose has outsmarted drug traffickers time and time again.

“He’s always keen to get to work, but if he finds something and his treat is not immediately forthcoming he lets me know.

“If he has to wait too long for his kibble he starts tap dancing – the dog equivalent of tapping your fingers.”

He has been gradually winding down his service since four new drugs detection dogs started service, including Bernie and Una who graduated from training last month.
He will now be able to fully relax into retirement.

Detection work is very physical for dogs – they do a lot of climbing and are on the go much more than a pet dog. They work every day for their food and rarely need a sick day.

It takes its toll on their bodies and seven years is usually the maximum tenure for a detection dog. All Tasmania Police detection dogs receive the highest quality veterinary care and sustenance.

“While they’re in service police dogs don’t get many bones but recently he’s discovered a love of digging up my backyard to bury bones,” Jareth said.

“He’s always loved being with our family and will enjoy spending even more time at home.”