Advertisements
What better way to honor everyday heroes in service to their country than a terrific, action-packed photoshoot? Even better, the stars of the show are none other than man’s best friends: dogs!
The start of the charity calendar project is actually very sentimental. A now-retired police sergeant lost his dear wife and colleague due to a battle with cancer and decided to commemorate her this way, forming the Candy Anfield Memorial Foundation. Little did he know that it would be this successful, all the while helping medical organizations – as all of the income goes to a hospital and a cancer research fund.
The VPD Canine Unit currently consists of 15 dog teams – each of them formed by one dog and one human handler. They both rely on each other for their special skillsets, so it comes as no surprise that the owners are heavily involved during the photoshoots, sometimes even appearing alongside their main pooch partners.
You can purchase next year’s calendar here. Check out the Facebook page as well for this fun charity organization!
This photo looks like it was taken on the set of a Hollywood blockbuster movie, isn’t it?
This year’s edition certainly takes the cake so far – and the one for 2020 is already available, too!
The idea of the calendar originated from Police Sergeant Mike Anfield in 2009, who started the project to commemorate his beloved wife.
Candy Anfield, who was also working for the police department passed away due to cancer in 2004.
The charity sales directly go towards a children’s hospital foundation and a cancer foundation – to help those who need it the most.
Dogs have diverse personalities, much like humans, and it certainly shows on these pictures. Playfulness, loyalty, dedication and a strong bond between dog and owner are the main focus of the calendars.
Behind the scenes, each dog’s owner was the one helping out and giving instructions to make their furry companion strike the best pose possible.
The calendar got so popular, people wanted to meet the stars of the show – so the police department organized actual meetups between the pooches and their fans!
These service dogs are highly skilled and trained – their discipline is unmatched. Humans and dogs work together as one!
To name a few of their rigorous training exercises, these dogs are experts at tracking down narcotics and explosives and even apprehending criminals, if necessary.
The Canine Unit itself is an integral part of the Vancouver Police Department, responding to thousands of calls per year. They sure deserve all the praise they get.
The dog lovers of the internet united on Twitter to praise these photogenic pups!
Let us show you some of the most dashing pictures from the calendars in chronological order, starting with 2018!
Just a few of 2017’s good boys.
2016 pup officers in action!
Four-legged champs of 2015.
Advertisements