My preferred law enforcement figure on television possesses intelligence, empathy, attentiveness, and bravery. He also happens to be exceptionally good-looking.
I'm referring to Rex, the fictional police canine portrayed by the German Shepherd named Diesel vom Burgimwald, who co-stars in CITY TV's popular series, "Hudson & Rex." While it may not be considered highbrow television, it is a well-crafted, diverse, considerate, and proudly Canadian police procedural, featuring an impressive four-legged officer.
Hudson & Rex
As the second season of the show concludes, it's evident that Rex/Diesel has captivated audiences. Moreover, his work encourages us to contemplate the cognitive abilities, contributions, and labor of animals within our communities.
K9 partnerships have long been depicted in popular culture (examples include "Turner & Hooch," "K9," "F.B. Eye," and the Canadian series "Katts & Dog"). However, for individuals who have experienced police dogs used against them, the sight of a German Shepherd or Malinois may not necessarily evoke positive emotions.
Hudson & Rex
In my role as an animal labor analyst, I find myself fascinated by both Diesel's contributions and the depiction of Rex, the police canine.
Understanding Rex's Workings
Hudson & Rex
In the series, Rex is Detective Charlie Hudson's (played by John Reardon) partner in major crimes, and he accompanies Hudson wherever he goes in a Canadian and union-made Dodge Charger. Keen-eyed viewers might occasionally notice that there are substitute dogs (Diesel's nephews, Iko and Izzy) used, but the majority of the canine performance comes from Diesel himself.
Whether it's within homes, businesses, universities, forests, or hospitals, Rex is afforded the freedom to conduct investigations independently, often relying on his keen sense of smell. Rex also pays close attention to people, displaying remarkable sensitivity. He has the ability to approach grieving mothers and trafficked teenagers, gently whimpering and resting his chin on their laps. In these poignant moments, he exemplifies a dog's capacity for empathy, known as emotional contagion, and their innate inclination to offer comfort. Rex also exhibits a discerning instinct, reacting unfavorably to individuals he finds suspicious, yet remarkably, he has never made a misjudgment in this regard.
Rex and Hudson maintain an ongoing form of communication and have forged a sophisticated inter-species language. When a suspect attempts to escape, which occurs frequently, Hudson instructs Rex to give chase. As the series progresses, Hudson's directives become more concise, with him often simply saying, "Rex, you know what to do," because Rex has acquired a deep understanding of his role.
Hudson & Rex
Rex is entrusted with a range of intricate physical and intellectual challenges, often learning new skills on the job. He displays empathy towards other animals and possesses the ability to anticipate and proactively engage in actions such as protection, apprehension, disarmament, intervention, and obstruction. These actions result in remarkable physical accomplishments that must be witnessed to be fully appreciated.
Rex also pays close attention to conversations and responds with adorable head tilts and various sounds that convey his approval or disbelief. These displays require just as much skill and focus as complex aerial acrobatics.
Hudson & Rex
The enduring recognition of Rex's autonomy is truly commendable. It's not just his physical prowess but also his intellectual capabilities and judgment that are highly respected. Rex is regarded as an individual, not merely as an object, and he actively collaborates with the team while being valued for his contributions. As Hudson frequently emphasizes, Rex is "my partner" and serves as the heart of the show. Much like real-life animals that play vital roles in our homes, hospitals, libraries, and courtrooms, Rex's contributions are immeasurable, significant, and often life-saving.
Working Animals: Exploring the Frontiers of Labor and Ethics
Hudson & Rex
The existence of this show is entirely thanks to the genuine efforts of Diesel and his dedicated owner/trainer, Sherri Davis. By observing Rex's gaze, you can discern where she is positioned on the set. They engage in authentic communication work, a complex interplay between species, which is essential for depicting Hudson and Rex's fictionalized communication dynamic.
Animal actors typically have not only human caregivers who train and look after them but also benefit from animal welfare regulations and some level of industry oversight, although not yet union representation. Some advocates for animals prefer the use of computer-generated animal characters in film and television. A few filmmakers, like Kornél Mundruczó, the director of the impactful film "White God," have intentionally involved shelter and rescued dogs in their projects.
I have formulated a comprehensive framework for thoughtfully examining various aspects of animals' labor, encompassing farmed and wild animals.
Hudson & Rex
I am firmly against work that results in suffering, violence, or the loss of life. However, I do believe that there can be ethically justifiable forms of labor and humane roles for certain domesticated animals under specific conditions. These conditions include having robust rights and protections in place (and enforcing them) and fostering work relationships grounded in care, reciprocity, and interspecies solidarity.
Equally significant as the work itself are what I refer to as animals' "work-lives." This encompasses their training and education, leisure time, relationships, living conditions, and retirement, all of which profoundly impact their overall well-being and quality of life.
These intricate issues are addressed in a recent book I co-edited with Charlotte Blattner and Will Kymlicka, titled "Animal Labour: A New Frontier of Interspecies Justice?" Nevertheless, there is an ongoing need for further research and data in this area.
Hudson & Rex
While I haven't had the opportunity to directly witness the set of "Hudson & Rex," I hold the belief that Diesel is genuinely enjoying his role and work-life. This is an intelligent and engaged dog, both on and off-screen, challenging outdated notions that animals are mere thoughtless and unfeeling objects. As Hudson aptly puts it, "I have many tools at my disposal. And I have Rex."
It's true that many individuals are more inclined to acknowledge the sentience of beloved species such as dogs, while they may be less aware of it in dog-like creatures like pigs. However, there seems to be a shift from a human-centric perspective to a more compassionate and inclusive one, moving from "humankind" to "kind." The question of animal consumption even enters Rex's world in episode 15 of season 2, providing a thoughtful exploration of veganism from various perspectives.
Hudson & Rex
Diesel/Rex assumes the role of an ambassador for animals and for a world in which we not only acknowledge their labor but also foster compassion and work towards justice for all species.
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