Urgent appeal: How your dog can aid the Eastern Cape K9 Units

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has issued an urgent appeal to the public for help after a shortage of dogs began hampering crime-fighting and life-saving operations within its K9 units.

The SAPS has appealed for suitable dog donations, warning that the lack of trained and trainable animals is undermining critical functions including crime detection, search-and-rescue missions and specialised operations across the province.

“Only dogs that are healthy, confident and energetic, and not fearful of people or loud noises will be considered,” said provincial police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli. 

“Preferred breeds include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Bloodhounds, Border Collies, Jack Russells and Dutch Shepherds,” he said.

He added that dogs selected for detection and search tasks, including narcotics, explosives, firearm detection, or search-and-rescue, should have a strong play or prey drive, demonstrated by a keen focus on and eagerness to chase balls or toys.

For patrol and apprehension duties, Nkohli said dogs should exhibit a steady, controlled prey drive, which reflects the disciplined aggression needed for suspect apprehension and protection work.

Nkohli said each donated dog will directly bolster frontline policing and help save lives.

Prospective donors are urged to contact K9 Unit Donation Coordinator Warrant Officer Chris Heggie at 072 735 0116.

The Star

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