THIS WEEK, Greater Manchester Police is sending out an SOS for new dogs to help in its fight against crime. The appeal is as a result of GMP, like a number of police forces, finding it increasingly difficult to source young German Shepherd or other large working dogs to replace the older members of its team.

Sergeant Phil Kenyon said: “Unfortunately, German Shepherd dogs, in particular, do not appear to make such popular pets anymore. Therefore, it has become extremely hard to find enough suitable German Shepherds to join the police force.

“We are urging anyone who has bought such dogs as German or Belgian Shepherds and Rottweilers, unaware of how large they grow and now are finding them too difficult to control, to consider the fact that, once trained, they may make perfect police dogs.”

People who donate their dogs to GMP may now receive a lump sum, which is agreed in advance and handed over once the dog has successfully completed the initial assessment and 13 week training course.

The police dog training includes obedience, searching techniques and other criminal work.
After completing their training they can work up to seven years in the police force and then often go on to spend a happy retirement with their handler.

If you think your dog fits the bill, please contact GMP’s Dog Training Section on 0161-856 1794/1791 between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday to arrange a home visit.