K9 It’s not just about their bite
The work of police dogs in combating crime often goes unrecognised, but their handlers, who lavish them with hugs and appreciative pats on the head, refer to them as being the true investigators. With their sharp senses, the dogs are able to pick up the s
HE BOND between an officer, or handler, and his dog is one of unwavering love and support. It is not formed overnight but over a period of months, where the dog and dog handler are trained together at a base in Pretoria.
From 18 months, puppies are trained to become police dogs in specialised fields and their handlers are trained in how to communicate with and understand their K9s.
Captain Rodger Peters, who has been with the dog unit for 22 years, said the bond between the two was further strengthened during play time: “It isn’t easy to bond, especially when an officer has to forge a relationship of trust with another policeman’s dog. It takes time. It takes small treats, visits and constant affection.”
He added that handlers expected their four-legged partners to support them by identify problems or clues, assisting in apprehending suspects and protecting them.
There are more than 20 dogs at the unit and they require support and protection, and their health and fitness must be maintained.
“They also need unconditional love and care.”
During training, Peters said the officers were required to stay at the dog training base.
“The officers undergo a basic dog training course, where they learn about their dogs and how to bond more effectively. Sometimes they instantly click but, in other cases, it takes longer. They are also encouraged to care for their new partners by grooming and bathing them.”
The breeds of dogs that are trained are German Shepherd, Labradors, Bloodhounds, Rottweilers and Malinois.
They are donated to the force by the public or by breeders.
Although some of the dogs could be vicious when out in the field, Peters said they did not use cruel or inhumane methods during training.
“We train them in the most humane manner, using methods that are internationally recognised and accepted in countries worldwide.”
At the Umlazi K9 unit, the dogs are housed in kennels at the base.
They are allowed to go home with their handlers, if the handlers request permission.
“Some officers are granted permission if their dogs are sick and need to be given medication at odd times.”
The dogs, added Peters, were retired upon the recommendation of a vet and this was done either due to old age or sickness.
“When dogs complete their duties, their partners can choose to take them home.”
The oldest dog in the unit is nineyear-old Leeu, a Labrador narcotics dog.
These crime-fighting dogs are placed on strict diets and it is up to their partners to ensure they are kept fit and healthy.