WITH his jet-black coat and captivating stare, German Shepherd Titus is said to have a real ‘presence’ when out on duty as his experienced handler PC Scott Tatton has quickly noted.
While Titus, who became a fully-fledged police dog in June last year, may be a rather silent passenger when PC Tatton is driving to incidents – he is quick to let people know he’s arrived when the door opens.
“He’s a really good all-rounder and has a good presence about him”, said PC Tatton, who became a handler back in 2007. “He is well mannered and will work well around the firearms officers – but when he’s under pressure he steps up his game.”
Titus and his handler PC Scott Tatton.
PD Titus can also boast a bilingual ability and responds to commands delivered in both German and English.
PC Tatton said:
“He’s a real wolf in sheep’s clothing as he doesn’t bark when he’s in the car but when he’s out he’s something else.”
In his first few months the two-year-old has already proved his worth to the force having been involved in a wide variety of incidents including tracking down suspected burglars, apprehending a fleeing motorist and using his presence to calm various situations.
Factfile:
- Name: Titus
- Age: Two years
- Strengths: Presence and cool under pressure
- Favourite food: Roast chicken
- Favourite toy: A frisbee
- Favourite hobby: Swimming
For PC Tatton, Titus joins an impressive list of dogs he has worked with on the force. He has previously responded to incidents with award-winning German Shepherd, Pippa, who picked up a number of commendations during her time in the force; and spaniel Maisie, who was trained to sniff out explosives.
And it’s not just a list Titus has joined - he also lives with Pippa, Maisie and of course, PC Tatton.
Titus in action!
Having joined the force in 2001 PC Tatton was part of a neighbourhood team covering the Longton area before becoming the dedicated officer for Meir. But in 2007 he realised his ambition to be a handler.
He said:
“My dad was in the army and he was a dog handler and I have always had an affinity with dogs.
“As soon as an opportunity came up with the dog team I went for it and was so pleased to get on. It was an intensive course and one part involved going through Cannock Chase with your dog and having that bond with them.”
His role has taken PC Tatton to the 2012 Olympics in London where he and Maisie would go into the stadiums to check for explosives. Along with that he has been involved in a number of Royal visits with the talented spaniel.
He added:
“I have been fortunate with the dogs I’ve had. Maisie was so good and Pippa won a lot of awards. I’ve high hopes for Titus.”
