The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) is proud to announce the completion of the Winnipeg Police Canine Memorial, a permanent structure dedicated to honouring the beloved and devoted police dogs who have served alongside their handlers and the citizens of Winnipeg.
Located beside the existing K9 building at 77 Durand Road, on the grounds of the East District Station, the memorial stands as a lasting tribute to the courage, loyalty, and service of every Winnipeg Police Service Dog since the unit’s inception in 1971.
Construction of the memorial began earlier this summer and was made possible through community fundraising efforts spanning nearly a decade. Over that time, hundreds of citizens, organizations, and police members contributed to the Canine Memorial Fund, helping to create a space where both handlers and the public can reflect on the enduring bond between police dogs and those they protect.
At the heart of the memorial stands “Forever Faithful,” a bronze sculpture by renowned California artist Susan Bahary, one of the foremost creators of monuments that celebrate the animal–human bond. The statue stands guard over four granite pillars, each engraved with the names, badge numbers, and years of service of Winnipeg’s Police Service Dogs.
A pathway of 436 engraved memory stones, donated by citizens and corporate partners, leads to the memorial. Each stone bears a personal message — a tribute to a loved one, a pet, or the memory of a dedicated working dog.
Since 1971, more than 78 police dogs have served with the WPS, playing an essential role in locating suspects, protecting officers, and keeping the community safe. The Canine Memorial offers a place for both officers and citizens to pay tribute to their service and sacrifice.
The Winnipeg Police Canine Memorial was initially conceptualized in 2016 and brought to life through eight fundraising initiatives over nine years.