Meet the Governor of Queensland's newest team member: Gavel, the German shepherd pup.
For nearly a year, Gavel was preparing to become a police dog in the Queensland Police Service, however, Gavel apparently didn't have what it took to be on the front lines and failed out for being a bit too friendly.
Have you met police recruit dog Gavel? He'll make a special appearance at Open Day on 4 June https://t.co/VOn4Miwiov pic.twitter.com/L21szZY039
— Queensland Governor (@QldGovernor) May 24, 2016
"Like many dogs aspiring to join the QPS Dog Squad, Gavel did not display the necessary aptitude for a life on the front line, and will instead spend his working days at Fernberg, where he has become a valued and much-loved part of Government House life," the office of Governor Paul de Jersey said.
It was clear from the start that Gavel was too loving to be battling criminals. In most photos, the loveable dog was seen sticking his tongue out. Even though "Poking your tongue is generally discouraged at Government House - it is thought to be somewhat unbecoming," the Governor wrote in one photo post.
Gavel was honored with a special new position, the Governor’s Vice-Regal Dog.
"He may have missed out on becoming a Queensland police service dog, but it is abundantly clear that Gavel has the characteristics necessary to adequately fulfill duties as Queensland's official vice-regal dog," the Governor of Queensland wrote in one post.
Gavel’s first official duty as Vice-Regal Dog was to greet guests attending the Governor's Citizenship Ceremony at Government House, where 24 people from 13 countries took the pledge to become Australian citizens.
According to a press release from the Governor's office, Gavel’s other duties going forward will include welcoming tour groups, attending functions with the Governor and Mrs de Jersey, and attending formal ceremonies.
Gavel had been a playful pup from the get-go.
When one door closes, another opens. And it looks like, in Gavel's case, everything happened for a reason.
