The story of police dog Luke helps SPCA

The most significant moment of an ex-police officer’s career is also etched into the memories of many New Zealanders.

Jim Donald was a police dog handler when in October 1983 his working companion and beloved pet Luke was shot in downtown Auckland.

The incident propelled Luke to celebrity status, with intense public interest in the german shepherd’s recovery.

Now Luke’s life has been documented in a book written by Mr Donald’s wife Ella and published by the couple to help raise funds for the SPCA.

"It’s part of our social history," says Mr Donald.

Although police dogs had been shot before, the incident was televised and high profile.

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