Dexter

Handler: Matt Petrof
Breed: German Shepherd
DOB: 3/2/2016
Department: Pennsylvania State Police
Function: Explosive Detection and Search and Rescue
Years Worked: 3/2017 – 4/2024

Dexter was born March 2nd, 2016 in Hungary. He began his police training with the Pennsylvania State Police in March of 2017. Unfortunately, Dexter was medically retired last month due to the onset of left side hip dysplasia. He receives a monthly injection to help minimize the pain and is currently living an enjoyable retirement. Canine Dexter was a dual purpose canine, certified in Explosive Detection and Human Tracking. During his career he assisted Federal, State and local authorities all across the state. He is credited with the most confirmed finds in the history of the state police tracking program.

Update 2024: Canine Dexter has been enjoying his retirement since April 2024. He adjusted pretty well to staying at home as I took my new partner to work each day. Dexter enjoys daily walks with my wife and playing with the kids around the house. Dexter gets along well with my new canine partner Rocco and they keep each other busy competing for the play toys around the house. Dexter receives a monthly injection to help minimize the pain (hip dysplasia) and is currently living an enjoyable retirement.

Update 2025: Canine Dexter continues to enjoy his retirement! He goes on daily walks with my wife and gets just as excited as he used to when it was time to work. Dexter also spends a lot of time with my current canine partner Rocco. They are hard to separate and they enjoy their time together playing. The monthly injection for his hip dysplasia seems to be helping him greatly.