IGP acknowledges vital role of sniffer dogs in security operations
LAHORE: Retired police sniffer dogs have recently found new homes through adoption, marking a significant departure from the customary practice of euthanizing them. An adoption ceremony took place at the Police Dogs Breeding Centre and Training School in Bedian, where the Punjab Police and a private organization signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate the transition of retired sniffer dogs to their new owners. The event was attended by IG Punjab, Dr Usman Anwar, who served as the chief guest. Additional IG Special Branch Zulfikar Hameed, SSP Admin Montazer Mehdi, ASP Syeda Shehrbanu, Chief Supervisor Special Branch Dr Muhammad Usman Asghar, representatives from the private organization JFK Animal Rescue and Shelter, as well as the dedicated handlers and trainers of the dogs, also attended the ceremony.
During the ceremony, the Saleem Khan family adopted two dogs named Sandy and Rita, while Dr. Merab provided a new home for a sniffer dog named Tiger. Dr. Usman Anwar emphasised the significant role played by Punjab Police sniffer dogs in identifying explosive items and narcotics during crucial security operations. In recognition of their work, he presented medals, certificates of appreciation, and cash awards to the handlers and trainers of the Punjab Police Service Dogs.The decision to spare the lives of these dogs came after ASP Syeda Sheherbano appealed to senior police officers a few months ago. She advocated for the adoption of dogs instead of subjecting them to euthanasia, asserting that these loyal canines, who had served faithfully for eight years, deserved a dignified retirement rather than a painful end. Following consultations with higher authorities, Sheherbano collaborated with animal rights organisations, leading to a partnership with the NGO called Justice for Dogs (JFK).
(Tribune)
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