The Animal Welfare Scheme (AWS) has been introduced in Wiltshire following a successful pilot in northern England. This initiative involves volunteers conducting regular checks on police dogs housed in kennels, vehicles, and training areas of the dog unit.
Volunteers visit every month to six weeks to ensure the well-being of the dogs. They have reported that the animals are currently well cared for without encountering any issues.
Sgt Jon Harwood of Wiltshire Police’s dog unit expressed his support for the scheme, emphasizing its benefits for the force. He sees it as an opportunity to showcase the care provided to their police dogs and to learn from practices in other areas.
The AWS was established following a review of dog training protocols prompted by the death of Acer, a police dog, in 1997. After a successful trial by Lancashire Police, the scheme is now being implemented in Wiltshire to further enhance the welfare and care standards for police dogs.
Sgt Harwood emphasized that currently, the main concern regarding police dog welfare revolves around day-to-day environmental factors such as hot weather and potentially hazardous situations. He underscored the responsibility the police force holds for their dogs, stating that they do not deploy them unless conditions are safe.
One new consideration for the force is creating shaded areas for the specialized vehicles that transport the dogs. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on inefficient air conditioning systems during hot weather.
Lesley Peters and Jo Piddock have been selected as volunteers for the AWS in Wiltshire due to their extensive experience with dogs. Ms. Peters has been involved in dog training since her teenage years, including work with police and security dogs. Meanwhile, Ms. Piddock specializes in agility and scent work with animals.
The training and work involving the dogs are reward-based, with the dogs receiving their ball as a reward after completing tasks. Additionally, dog handlers take their canine partners home, where they have dedicated kennels and runs set up for their comfort and well-being.
Ms. Piddock emphasized that the well-being of police dogs can be discerned from their behavior, indicating whether they are genuinely content with their work. She expressed satisfaction with the current conditions, stating that the dogs are performing well, receiving excellent care, and are transported under suitable conditions.
Both volunteers, Ms. Peters and Ms. Piddock, affirmed that they currently have no concerns regarding Wiltshire Police dogs. They highlighted the positive handling practices in place, emphasizing that dogs are not coerced into tasks but participate willingly, often through play.
Ms. Peters added, “As long as the dog is happy, they will work for you.”
The Animal Welfare Scheme has been implemented through collaboration between the Police and Crime Commissioner and the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), with support from the Dogs Trust. This initiative aims to ensure high standards of care and welfare for police dogs across Wiltshire.